Tips for a Successful Transition Back to School

Back to school: What guardians can do – PSAM

Set a consistent bedtime for your child and stick with it every night to help your child settle down and fall asleep. A calming pre-bedtime routine may include a bath/shower, reading books, soft music, and deep breathing.
Getting enough sleep is critical for a child to be successful in school. The recommended amount of sleep for school-aged children is about 10 hours per night. Remind your child to turn off electronic devices well before bedtime and remove them from their room while they sleep. Try to have the home as quiet and calm as possible when younger children are trying to fall asleep.
Discuss the positive aspects of starting school to create enthusiasm about the first few days of class. A new grade level in school, a new teacher, coupled with new friends and new experiences, can mean new smiles for your children when approached in a positive way.
Studies show that children who eat a nutritious breakfast function better. They do better in school and have better concentration and more energy. Students may order and purchase both breakfast and lunch at school.

With your child’s help, create an environment that is conducive to doing homework starting at a young age. Children need a consistent workspace in their bedroom or another part of the home that is quiet, without distractions, and promotes focused study.
Have a conversation with your child regarding homework expectations. You may consider requiring them to complete homework assignments during an afterschool program. You may express to your child that homework should be completed before they turn on any electronic devices. Establish a routine that works best for you.
Help your child develop organizational skills, such as creating a checklist of “to-do” items for school assignments and tasks. Encourage your child to use their agenda to help them remember their assignments.
Prepare for the next day. Getting prepared for the next day the night before can ensure the rush of the morning is eliminated. Depending on the age of your child, you may want to assist or encourage them to prepare for the next day. Designate a time before bed for your child to pack their book bags, ensure they have packed their homework, pack their lunch, and any other necessary tasks.

The best way to know when your child is doing well is simply by talking to them. Communicate with your child about how they are feeling. If your child is feeling worried, validate that feeling and let them have some space to express their concerns, but focus on something constructive they can do to help them feel better.
Help them become more acclimated to new routines and unfamiliar surroundings by talking through what they might expect to see. Allow them to ask questions and answer them honestly. Try your best to stay calm and positive.
Another way to help kids focus on positive things is to try to get them to talk about the good things about school. What are they looking forward to? What did they enjoy most about the previous day?
Practice deep breathing to help calm the nervous system. Guide your child in several deep breaths; try counting to four while breathing in and exhaling for six. Encourage your child to practice at night, in the morning, in the classroom, before a test, etc.
Before you know it, your child will be happily settled in their new environment! If you have any concerns or would like support with this transition, please reach out to your school counselors!

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