By Heather Long
With summer coming to a close and school quickly approaching, you may be low-key panicking about the best way to get your kids ready to return to the classroom. Have no fear! The practical tips below combine the insights of Cathy Ivey, a retired teacher with 25 years of experience, along with my own experiences as a mom of rising middle school students, so you can be confident that your family
will be equipped for the days ahead.
Tip #1 – Prepare your children emotionally
In the weeks before school begins, you can help create excitement about the return to the classroom by letting children pick out their own backpacks and other school supplies. For younger children, read books about the first day of school to reduce any fears or anxieties they may have. I cannot emphasize
this enough: Talk to your child about what to expect on their first day of school! Explain that being nervous is completely okay and tell them about your own experiences as a child, of how you were excited and less nervous once you got to see your friends and meet your new teacher. Talking through these big feelings will help normalize them and reassure your child that they can do this!
Tip #2 – Make the most of the night before
Sometimes bedtimes become more flexible during the summer months, so don’t wait until the night before school starts to change it. Consider making this transition over a two-week period by shifting the bedtime earlier by about 15 minutes each day until you return to your pre-summer schedule.
Before heading to bed, offer the children a healthy snack. Think protein—so they won’t become hungry during the night and avoid sugary treats that could keep them awake. Encourage them to bathe and brush their teeth regularly and set aside time to read together before bed. Limit screen time in the evening to ensure a smooth transition to sleep. Children need around 9-10 hours (or more) of sleep to be well-rested, so having a consistent bedtime routine will go a long way toward preparing them for
the challenges of the next day.
Tip #3 – Establish a morning routine
As a mom of school-aged children, I’ve found that one of the best ways I can support them is to establish sensible routines that prepare them for what’s ahead. Sticking to a daily plan gives kids a sense of control and safety because they always know what to expect. Because of this structure, children are much happier and more successful in the classroom and beyond.
To make sure you won’t have to scramble around first thing in the morning, lay out all clothes and backpacks the night before. Set an alarm that allows you enough time to eat breakfast, brush teeth, and get dressed—all without having to rush. For breakfast, consider having grab-and-go options available, or prep meals the night before. Breakfasts high in protein will keep children from feeling hungry sooner, and this also helps them focus better in class. If your child likes waffles, for example, offer a high-protein version that is appetizing for even the pickiest of eaters. Pair this with a sausage patty or bacon so your child can be full and ready to engage!
Be sure to practice your morning drop-off routine ahead of time, too. Walk or drive to school to see how long your commute will take, and allow extra time for the first couple of weeks. Usually, traffic patterns improve as parents and guardians adjust to the new routines over time. If your children are riding a bus, ensure everyone knows the pickup and drop-off times and locations. Stay with your child at the bus stop to alleviate any fears they may have about riding the bus.
Tip #4 – Establish after-school habits
Pick a spot near the door where the children can deposit their coats, shoes, and backpacks as soon as they return from school. This way, these items are not strewn about the house and are easy to find when it’s time to do homework. Set aside a time for your child to complete their assignments each day: Will it
be done immediately upon their return from school, or is it better to wait until after dinner or sports practice? Regardless, creating a dedicated space for doing homework doesn’t have to be a desk, but it should be quiet, well-lit, and well-organized to help with concentration.
While it is important to help your child establish good homework habits, be sure that you are not doing their school projects for them. The point is to empower your child to do their best on their own. Now is the time to teach them to self- advocate, too. Be available for any questions they may have and encourage them to find out more in class when they do not understand the material.
Tip #5 – Don’t neglect self-care
Remember, you cannot pour from an empty vessel. Be sure to prioritize your own self-care as well. Model positive behaviors that you expect from your children, such as adopting good sleep habits (like limiting screen time before bed). A rested parent will be more likely to stick to established routines.
Be realistic! Accept that this back-to-school season can be challenging and give yourself some grace. Try to avoid taking on extra work commitments during this period of adjustment, and whenever possible, schedule some time for yourself to exercise or journal. You can also use mindfulness or meditation to help center your day. Do not speak badly about yourself, because your children will often do the same. Speak affirmations to yourself and your children, and they will develop confidence as they mature into adulthood.
Takeaway
Developing a school routine positively affects children’s health and well-being. Keep in mind that routines can be adjusted. If you find something is not working for your family, simply make a change. Putting in hard work now to develop a successful school routine will help the entire family thrive all year long! It can be challenging, but from one mom to another…You’ve got this!
