The long holiday is coming to an end, and now many children will be preparing to return to school to begin a new session, which is usually both exciting and overwhelming for both parents and children.
For parents, it is time to manage logistics and address the emotional needs of their kids, while for the kids, it might take time to adjust to a different routine than what they’ve had in the last couple of months. Common mistakes, such as neglecting routines or overlooking the emotional impact of returning to school, often contribute to the stress.
However, here are back-to-school tips to ease the transition.
Positive mindset
Many children dread resuming school because of the emotional, physical, and academic demands that come with it, but it is the duty of parents to instil a positive mindset, which includes learning how to cope with stress, challenges, demands, and peer pressure. As a parent, it is your duty to provide emotional support for your child and monitor their changes, working to address them.
Set a routine
The second vital step is to help your child transition back to a school schedule by gradually adjusting their routine.
Parents should first adjust their bedtime to help them get enough sleep before waking them up. On the other hand, not getting enough sleep has been associated with lower academic achievement.
Secondly, limit their TV time and Tablet time; holidays and entertainment are also included. It is best to establish the screen time that will be used during the school week to maintain a healthy balance between academics and recreational activities.
Do your school supply shopping now
In about a week or two, schools are expected to resume officially, with payments for items such as lunch packs, stockings, stationery, underwear, and shoes being imminent. To avoid rush hour, it is essential to make proper plans to make this process easier for ourselves and our children.
Set academic goals
An excellent way to motivate your children is to set an academic goal, and if possible, use incentives such as rewards to celebrate every goal or achievement, no matter how small. Additionally, it is essential to encourage them to think about what they want to achieve academically, which could include improving in a particular subject, achieving a specific grade, and participating in extracurricular activities.
Plan the steps that would be taken to achieve these goals in relation to your children’s strengths. Regularly check in to review their goals and provide support and encouragement.
Childcare and safety plans
As a working parent, it is essential to make preparations for after-school childcare for your child. After a day of activity at school, a child needs adequate rest and care to avoid breaking down. You can also create safety plans by walking routes with your child, informing them of emergency contacts, and sharing safety tips for public transportation.
Build a relationship with your child’s teachers
As a parent, whether you are working or not, it is essential to engage with your child’s teachers to understand their progress, character, and any concerns about their performance. This will help you identify the areas in academics and values where your child may be struggling.
Ensure your child’s physical health
Finally, ensure your child is healthy before the school year starts again. Schedule regular check-ups and seek medical attention if needed, and ensure their vaccinations are up to date. Check their temperature regularly and teach them the importance of personal hygiene. This is a crucial aspect to address before the new school year begins.