Streamlining your Child's School Year Experience
The back-to-school time is upon us, and K-12 students are anxious as they prepare for the upcoming school year. Help your child transition back into the groove easier by encouraging a bedtime that is more realistic to those early-waking hours. Also, sit down with your child to discuss about the positive aspects of the new school year. There are plenty of things to look forward to, like:
In order to adjust to all of this “newness,” make sure not to plan large trips right before — or even worse, during — the beginning of the school year. Also, establish schedules for homework and recreation for your elementary, junior high, or high school student. Arranging dates for old school friends to get together before the school year starts could ease the jitters as well. When your child expresses nervousness, reassure them that other children feel exactly the same way.
Previous junior high school students that are transitioning into high school may want to take a look at High School Bound: The Ultimate Guide for High School Success and Survival by Martin Spethman and Chuck Klein. There are an abundance of books available for elementary-level students facing the “going back to school” fears.
If your school has paperwork that needs to be filled out for the new school year, make sure to have it done several days in advance to avoid any last-minute panic. Also have immunization records handy for your child in case your school requests this information. The school should have up-to-date emergency contact information and any emergency kits needed for the local area, such as an earthquake kit. Mark all the important school dates ahead of time on the calendar so you can make arrangements to attend.
Going back to school does not have to induce jitters in your child, nor should it induce jitters in you. With a little bit of advanced preparation and pep talk, you can get the school year started on the right foot and ensure the best school experience for your child.