Back-to-school season is upon us! It’s a time of excitement and maybe a little sadness as we say goodbye to warm weather and long, sunny days. Although your family may have enjoyed the laid-back vibes of the season, it might be time to get back into the school-time routines. Here are some ideas to get your summer-to-school transition started!
- Make bedtime and wake-up time a little earlier. Start gradually throughout the weeks leading up to school until you find the right time for your family.
- Look forward to school with enthusiasm! Talk about meeting new friends, seeing old ones and learning new things! Your approach to the transition will greatly impact how your child feels about getting back in their classroom.
- If your child is starting at a new school this year, visit the school, starting with the playground! Familiarity with the environment can calm any worries. Meet their teacher(s) and share any needs your child may have, and, depending on their age, let your child ask any questions they may have!
- Take your child shopping to buy their supplies. Let them choose backpacks, notebooks, pencils or water bottles to build excitement, ownership and agency. Don’t forget to let them pick out some new clothes, too!
- Practice skills they will need for independence such as putting on their shoes, using the bathroom independently and opening their lunch containers.
- Talk with them about classroom expectations, such as following each other in line, treating others with kindness and talking when it’s their turn.
- To prepare children emotionally, talk with them about how they feel about going to school and meeting new children. Help them process their worries or concerns, and consider connecting with other families, possibly with some play dates before school starts, to help build familiarity.
- Don’t forget to take pictures on the first day of school! Ask your child to write down what they are most excited about for the year ahead and share with them what you’re most excited about. Sharing this special moment will help them feel more comfortable when school starts.
Once school starts, expect the unexpected. As children adjust to changes in routines and environments, they need emotional support and encouragement. Remember to celebrate small successes and enjoy all the new adventures!
