Believe it or not, the start of school is just around the corner, if not already in session in some parts of the country! As a mother of four, I have to admit that I’m ready to see my kiddos walking out the door with their backpacks on! Whether you are looking forward to the beginning of school or wishing you had another month, it’s time to start transitioning into school mode. Check out these eight suggestions for helping your child (and you) transition smoothly into a new school year.
- Bedtime – At least one week before school starts, begin having the kids observe their normal school bedtime. It takes a while for a body to adjust to a new schedule and you want to be sure your little ones are well rested for their first day!
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School Supplies – This is the time to purchase those much needed school supplies for the coming year. Fortunately, many stores have marked down their prices for school items in anticipation of the fall semester. So gather those supply lists and hit the stores!
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Immunizations – Before the first day of class, check with your child’s school and make sure there are no immunization requirements to meet before enrolling. Visit the Centers for Disease Control website to view their immunization schedule for children.
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School Clothes – Make certain your kiddo is properly outfitted for the coming school season. Check to see that clothes and shoes still fit properly and don’t have holes or huge stains. Remember to keep your child’s school dress code in mind if you need to shop for new clothes.
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Lunch Plan – If your kiddo takes her lunch to school, discuss in advance what types of food she would like to have in her lunchbox. This will help prevent school morning melt downs when your daughter wants turkey instead of bologna on her sandwich! Also remember that many schools prohibit nuts due to student allergies.
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Talk – How does your little one feel about the approach of a new school year? Take time to discuss any fears and answer any questions your kiddo may have about the upcoming year. A little chat can go a long way in alleviating back to school stress!
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Cut Back Screen Time – It is not uncommon by the end of the summer for all those good intentions of limiting screen time for the kids to fizzle out. So, if your kids have become accustomed to extended periods interacting with electronics, start cutting back now so they will be ready to face the reality of a structured school day.
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Mark Your Calendar – As the first day of school approaches we start getting information about orientations, schedule pick-ups, and parent meetings. And these events are multiplied according to the number of school aged children you have. Be certain to mark your calendar with all the back to school events your family must attend to ensure a smooth transition to the school year.
The beginning of a new school season can be stressful. With a little forethought and effort you can smooth the transition for your child and start the school year off on the right foot. Red Apple Reading wishes you and your kiddos a great school year!
