As summer winds down, school bus trips will take the place of family
vacations. This is a time of change and transition for many
families. New schools, new teachers, less free time, and more stress
are only a few of the many changes children and families encounter
at the beginning of a new school year. In order to help children
feel good about themselves and to create and maintain a positive
family outlook about the coming school year, it’s important to
figure out how to make a smooth transition between the summer break
and the beginning of school. Here are some tips to help make this
transition more relaxed and enjoyable for everyone.
- Take a School
Tour
This is especially important if your child is new
to the school or changes to a new building. Children need to
know where to go on the first day and what to expect. This will
relieve a lot of stress and anxiety your child may feel.
- Establish a
Routine
Bed times, rise and shine times, where the child
should put the backpack and important notes when he/she get
home—whatever the routine/schedule will be, begin following it
at least a week before school actually begins. This short
period of adjustment will help you and your child work out the
kinks.
- Meet
With Your Child’s Teacher(s)
Introduce yourselves.
Discuss what will be happening in the classroom, any special
needs or situations your child may have. Volunteer to help out
in the classroom if the school encourages parental involvement.
- Make Sure All
School Records Are Up To Date
Make sure the school has any new phone numbers, changes of
address, immunization updates, etc. Having these in an emergency
can save precious minutes.
- Get All
Required Examinations
Try to schedule appointments for sports physicals,
immunizations, dental exams, etc. before school starts. This
will help avoid absences from school.
- Be Sure Your
Child Knows His/Her Address and Phone Number
This is especially necessary if you have just moved!
- After School
Care
Make necessary arrangements and be sure your child knows
where they are to go and what they are to do after school. It is
also a good idea (especially for elementary school
students) to inform the teacher of these plans also.
- Purchase
School Supplies
Check with your child’s teacher or school for a list of
needed supplies.
- Create a
Homework Center
Stock it with extra crayons and supplies to complete
homework. Make sure it is no television is near and distractions
few.
- Stress
the Importance of Good Nutrition
Healthy, well-balanced breakfasts, lunches, snacks and
dinners can unleash the Brainiac in your child! Studies have
shown that good nutrition helps keep children focused, their
energies high, and their moods balanced—all of which are factors
that promote learning.
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