Whether your child is about to begin his or her first year of preschool or entering high school–the transition from summertime to school time is bound to be a bumpy one. No matter your child’s age, a little preparation will go a long way. Here are my back to school tips to help your kids (and you) transition as smoothly as possible.
[dropcap]1.[/dropcap] [typography font=”Boogaloo” size=”28″ size_format=”px”]Return to the Routine[/typography]
We’ve been sleeping in and lounging well into the day this summer. It’s been fabulous, but there is no way we will be able to get up and moving with the birds without a little practice. Start getting everyone up at the same time and getting ready in the morning. Eat breakfast at the same time as you would during the school year, and then leave the house for a few early morning errands or a trip to the park. Try to have lunch and dinner on your school-day schedule and observe school-year bedtimes as well. Think of it as a dress rehearsal. You’ll be glad to work out the kinks before the first day.
Need some help to get your kiddos back on schedule? Check out this article by our Resident Sleep Expert, Arielle of Expect to Sleep Again Sleep Consulting, LLC.
[dropcap]2.[/dropcap] [typography font=”Boogaloo” size=”28″ size_format=”px”]Get Organized[/typography]
Now is a great time to go through your child’s dresser and take inventory. Get rid of clothes that they have outgrown or worn out and purchase replacements. Put together your child’s backpack and school supplies and designate a place for them to eliminate the morning, “Mom? Where’s my…?” You may also want to create a checklist of items your child needs to take with him or her each day, or things he or she needs to complete before leaving for school, and post it. Having everything you need where you need it will help you both feel more prepared for back to school.
Looking for a place to sell your old and get new at a steal? Look no further than our Guide to Thrift and Consignment on the Seacoast
[dropcap]3.[/dropcap][typography font=”Boogaloo” size=”28″ size_format=”px”]Orient Yourselves[/typography]
Whether your child is returning to the same school or is starting at a new one, take the time to attend the school’s orientation or back to school information night. It will give you and your child a chance to meet the teacher, see the new classroom, maybe even check out his or her assigned seat. Other important folks to meet include the office staff, principal, and guidance counselors. If your child is nervous about the first day, take the opportunity to walk through what they should expect: Where will they go when they arrive? Where will they hang their things? Where is the closest bathroom? What time is lunch? Recess? Knowing what to expect and who will be there to help is important.
Still nervous? Check out these fabulous book recommendations from Mollie, your friendly Seacoast librarian.
[dropcap]4.[/dropcap] [typography font=”Boogaloo” size=”28″ size_format=”px”]Make a Game Plan[/typography]
Now is the time to plan how your child will get to and from school. If he or she will be taking the bus, make sure everyone knows who will be getting them on in the morning and who will be there to meet them in the afternoon. Then consider your back-up plans. What will happen if your child misses the bus? What should your child do if no one is there to meet them when they get home? Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, work-at-home mom, or a full-time-working mom, chances are you’ll need to make sure there are plans in place in case there’s a snow day, sick day or early release.
Still, need to stock up? Not sure what your kid needs or what to choose? Check out these great Gear Guides for Back To School!!
- Our Occupational Therapist talks backpacks
- Super Mom gives you the lowdown on classroom supplies
- Get haircut tips from our fabulous, resident hairstylist
- Shop lunch box must-haves with this shopaholic (yours truly).
