Summer has come to an end and schools are all set to open up their hallways of knowledge. Starting a new school year on the right note can boost your child’s confidence and performance, both academically and socially. While children are at the epicenter of such a change, parents can do quite a bit to keep up their kid’s spirit and make the transition as smooth as possible.
Fix That Wonky Circadian Rhythm
Getting to stay up past bedtime is the most thrilling part of a kid’s summer. And when it comes to starting back on a regular sleep routine, kids often rebel – much to an adult’s chagrin!
Regardless, children need about 9 to 11 hours of quality sleep so that they can be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at school. After all, a tired mind is not a suitable conduit for learning.
So, to ensure that your child is well-slept, consider implementing a strict regulated schedule at least a week ahead of school starting. Reinstate any prebedtime chores, such as reading, tidying up their room, or helping with the dishes to establish a bedtime ritual that will help build a habit of getting to bed on time.
Follow a Routine
As with bedtime, you will also have to outline a daytime routine for your kid. But whether it is waking up and getting ready or getting homework finished on time, returning to school may feel more restrictive compared o the freedom of summer.
Explain to them why this change is necessary and how it will benefit them so that they do not view it as punishment. Wherever possible, make it fun and exciting so that it can serve as a learning experience.
Establish a System of Rewards
As stated above, slipping into a back-to-school schedule is no walk in the park. You will face resistance and would feel like giving up in this fight. A reward system can prove to be extremely useful in keeping them motivated to adapt to this change. Use stickers or treats to acknowledge good behavior, such as helping place a chair cover, hanging the solar shades, or clearing the table after lunch. For older kids, you can allow them to encash their chore points for a small prize of their choosing.
Prep Their Lunches
When you’re in charge of making the week’s lunches, meal prepping can be a game-changer. Plan your child’s lunches in advance by prepping the ingredients and containers. If you have a hectic morning ahead of you, get a head start by fixing the lunch the night before.
Gather All Their Supplies
To avoid any back-to-school shopping crowds, consider purchasing their school supplies early, preferably 1-2 weeks in advance. Most schools issue packets containing a list of all the items that the child will require in the academic year. Be sure to save the receipts for all the purchases as your child may not end up using every item you buy.
Serve Up a Favorite Dinner
Is your child feeling blue about having to go back to school? Cheer them up with a special meal! Head to your sustainable kitchen and put together an appetizing dinner containing your kids’ favorites and serve it a night before the big day. It will lift their spirits, and who knows, they might even look forward to school!
Prepare for “After School”
Once school time is over, then what? Consult your kids to know what they would like to do beyond their school hours. Is there any club or sport they’re interested in? Or would they prefer to spend their afternoons pursuing hobbies at home? Ask them to be specific about their preferences and get them involved in choosing their activities.
Carve Out a Homework Schedule
For kids, homework may be the most dreaded part of heading back to school. But a little planning on your end can make it bearable for you and your child. Start by setting aside a designated study area. It should have all books and stationery items readily available and have minimum distractions. If the weather permits, they can even do their homework on the patio under your solar shades- once you’ve removed the custom covers, of course.
Implementing a fixed study time, ideally in the hours before dinner, can also help your child. And if time permits, help them with their homework so you can be involved in their progress and encourage a love for learning.
Talk About Safety
If your child is just starting school, talk to them about important principles such as stranger danger. While doing so, create a safe space for discussion so that they can share everything with you, from their fears and concerns to their hopes and achievements. Also, if there’s any possibility you may still be at work when they arrive home from school, let them know how to reach you or emergency contacts.
Set Aside Time for Family
Once you and your kids fall into the busy routine of a school year, spending quality time with family can take the backseat. But rather than allowing monotony to sap all the fun, spice it up with weekend plans with family. It could be anything, from an afternoon hike to removing the custom covers and pillow covers to enjoy a meal al fresco.
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