Back to school tips

The new school year means new friends, teachers, clothes, classrooms, and challenges... It’s normal for students (and their parents) to feel anxious about returning to school. Here are some simple ways to ease the transition from holiday-mode to school-mode, that can benefit parents and students alike.

1. USE A CALENDAR

Your children will be better prepared for the school year when they can visually see when school will start. Hang a calendar in their room and let them mark off each day with a colorful pen.

2. START BEDROOM ROUTINES EARLY

Children will need some time to get back to the sleeping pattern that they had before the summer holidays started. In order to make it easier for the kids to be awake early in the morning, parents can introduce the school sleep routine two weeks before school starts.

3. BACK-TO-SCHOOL SHOPPING

Pick a date to go school shopping with your children. This date should be set and organised some time in advance to have a relaxed shopping experience.

4. MAKE THE UNKNOWN ENVIRONMENT FAMILIAR

If your children are worried about the fact that they will start school in a new environment, ask the school if you can go on a tour. This can relax their nervous system and get them excited!

5. PREPARE LUNCHBOXES EARLY AND MAKE THEM EASY

Ask your children about healthy food that they like to take to school. Giving them a choice can help them feel they have more control. Maybe your child likes particular fruits or vegetables which you can pack as well as a sandwich.

6. TALK ABOUT HOMEWORK

Children who understand the topics they are studying at school have an easier time. Usually, good quality homework is key to helping with this. Review the environment where your child does his or her homework: Is it quiet enough? Is there enough space? What distractions might there be?

7. DEAL WITH EXPECTATIONS

Older children will already have set themselves expectations they want to fulfill at school. Therefore, it is helpful to ask them what they expect and hope for, and what obstacles they might encounter.

8. SHOW THAT YOU THINK ABOUT THEM

There are many ways you can do this. A fun idea might be to include a little note in their lunchbox to show that you care and that you think about them during the day even when they are away. Warm, gentle support helps the brain develop.

9. ROUTINES AFTER SCHOOL

A parent should ideally be at home to help the kids get ready for school in the morning and supervise them when they return. If this is not possible talk to your children that it is important to follow rules and listen to the adult supervising them. Also think about a structure they can follow to help them plan and prioritise their time after school.