The start of the 2023 school year can be exciting and overwhelming for both children and parents. As the summer comes to an end, it’s important for parents to start preparing their kids for the upcoming school year. Here are some tips and ideas we’ve put together to help make the transition back to school as smooth as possible:
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Establish a routine: One of the most important things you can to prepare your kids for the new school year is to establish a routine. This can include setting regular bedtimes, wake-up times, and meal times. Establishing a routine will help kids feel more secure and better able to cope with the demands of the school day.
- Get organised: Another key aspect of getting ready for the new school year is to get organised. This can include creating a schedule for homework and studying, as well as making sure that all necessary school supplies are purchased and in good condition. Parents can also help their kids organize their backpacks and school binders to make sure everything is in its place. A great way to evoke some excitement is to have the kids help label and cover their books - ‘many hands make light work’ and they’ll love being involved in the process. The start of the year is the perfect time to invest in a School Memory Book to ensure you keep all those precious keepsakes for years to come. It’s a simple yet elegant tool for all the important school bits.
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Plan for after-school activities: After-school activities can be a great way to keep kids engaged and motivated throughout the school year. Parents can help their kids plan for after-school activities by researching local programs, such as sports teams, music lessons, or clubs. You can also help your kids set goals for the school year, such as earning a spot on a sports team or participating in a school play.
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Communicate with teachers: One of the most important things parents can do to help their kids get ready for the new school year is to communicate with their kids' teachers. Parents can contact their kids' teachers to introduce themselves and to ask any questions they may have about the upcoming school year. Parents can also ask teachers for advice on how to best support their kids throughout the school year.
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Make sure your child's physical and emotional well-being is taken care of: The new school year can bring a lot of stress for kids, and it's important for parents to keep an eye out for signs of stress and anxiety in their children. Make sure your child is getting enough sleep, eating well, and getting regular physical activity. It's also important to make time for fun and relaxation, and to encourage your child to talk about their feelings. As teachers, we recommend using social stories as a fantastic calming strategy. Incorporating social stories about common upcoming transitions and unexpected events can help prepare your children and reduce anxiety in changes to their regular schedule. A good social story will make it easy for your child to visualise what will happen and provide suggestions on how to respond if they are already feeling anxious.
- Get involved: Finally, parents can help their kids get ready for the new school year by getting involved in their kids' education. This can include volunteering in the classroom, attending parent-teacher conferences, and participating in school events. Getting involved can help parents stay informed about what's happening at school and can also give them the opportunity to support their kids in new ways.
Getting ready for the new school year can be a lot of work, but with a little planning and preparation, it can be a smooth transition for everyone involved. By following some of the simple tips above, we can help our kids start the year on the right foot!