As summer is coming to an end and it is time to get back to school! It can be hard to fall back into our regular schedules, both for the child and parent as well.
Whether their summer was packed with fun or filled with complaints about being bored at home, children often have a tough time making the transition back-to-school.
We should always give some time to the child in order to adjust into new situations and environments. Be it, going to school for the first time or entering a new grade or new school. Try to make them understand that it is okay to be nervous about their first day and that they will soon love going to school. Remind them about all the fun factors about school like hanging out with old friends, meeting new classmates, buying new school goodies and getting involved in sports or other exciting activities.
If your child is going to a new school, try to arrange a visit before the school starts. Ask if your child can pair with another student or a new buddy, and also if you can also connect with the other new parents. This will help both you and your child to adjust with new people and surroundings.
Here are a few tips & tricks to have a smooth transition back to school!
- Set a reasonable bedtime so that they are fresh and ready for their day at school.
- Serve them a healthy breakfast, they’re more alert and do better in school if they have a good breakfast every day.
- Make sure you are aware of tiny details such as, what time the classes begin and end, when they break for lunch, their classroom numbers, names of their teachers and bus drivers.
- Use a wall calendar to record when assignments, extracurricular activities and rehearsals will take place.
- Let your child pick out a new lunchbox and a set of paints, pencils, crayons etc., that will get them excited to go back to school.
- Help them organize and pack their bags a night before their school begins.
Back-to-School To-Do’s
Parents themselves can be a little nervous about their child’s first day of school, especially if they’re seeing their little one off for the first time or if their child is going to a new school.
Here’s a handy checklist:
- Does the school have a dress code? Are there certain things which students can’t wear?
- Will the child need an extra pair of clothes for art class?
- Does your child have a safe backpack that’s lightweight, with two wide straps, a waist belt, a padded back, and multiple compartments?
- Have you packed up all the necessary school supplies?
To ensure the child gets the most out of school, maintain an open channel of communication with the teachers by e-mailing or talking with them throughout the school year to discuss your child’s academic strengths as well as weaknesses.
Most of all, whether it’s the first day of school or the last, make sure your child knows you’re there to listen to their feelings and concerns, and that you don’t expect perfection — only that they try their best.
Hope your child and you have a happy and learning filled Academic Year ahead!