While it may be hard to believe, the summer is nearly over, which means the start of a new school year. Depending on where you live, your kids may be starting school within the next few weeks.
A new school year can be challenging for some kids, not just because summer is over. A new school year means a new grade, teacher, classroom peers, expectations, and maybe even a new school. All these new things can cause nervousness. However, there are things you can do to help.
Below are some great ideas to make the first day extra sweet for your child. Remember, each child and family is different, so pick and choose which tips will work for you and yours.
(RDNE Stock project/pexels)
Prepare
Some things need to be done in the last few weeks leading up to the start of a new school year. Follow these guidelines to ensure your child is ready when that inevitable first day arrives.
1. Adjust Sleep Routines
If you are like many families, during the summer, regular sleep routines go out the window. Kids are up later than usual for various activities, which causes them to sleep in later in the mornings (if parents are lucky).
Getting back on a regular sleep schedule a few weeks before school starts is a good idea. You can do this by slowly moving back the nighttime routine until you’re at the desired school year bedtime.
Sleep is always important, but it’s vital during the school year when kids must focus on studying and learning.
2. Back-To-School Shopping
While some kids may enjoy this activity more than others, many kids anticipate back-to-school shopping with excitement. Picking out new outfits and school supplies is a fun way to prepare for the year ahead.
Make your back-to-school shopping experience even better by making it a special outing. Include lunch and maybe see a movie. You may even consider taking each kid individually on their own special “date.”
3. Tour The School
If your child is starting at a new school, take time to tour the school, so your child can feel more confident. Knowing where to go on the first day will undoubtedly ease some of the first-day nerves.
Check out important areas such as their classrooms, the office, and the lunchroom, and locate their locker.
4. Meet The Teacher(s)
Along with touring the school, take time for your child to meet their teacher(s). Most schools have a back-to-school night, which is the perfect time to tour the school and meet the teachers.
5. Practice Morning Routine
To help the first morning go smoothly, practice your morning routine. If your child is older, talking it through or writing it down is sufficient. Your morning routine should include the times to wake up, eat breakfast, get dressed, and leave for school.
6. Make A Countdown
This is a fun way for your child to see how many days are left until school starts. It can be as simple as marking off the days on a calendar or making a paper chain.
7. Talk It Out
Help your child work through any emotions they may be feeling regarding the new school year, especially if the child is nervous or apprehensive. Talk and work together to find ways to ease their nerves.
8. Read Books About The First Day Of School
For younger school-aged children, reading books themed on returning to school can help them get excited and ease some nerves.
9. Prepare The Night Before
A stressful morning spent scrambling to find things and rushing out the door is not how you want to start a new school year. Ensure the morning goes smoothly by setting out clothes, backpacks, lunch boxes, etc., the night before.
10. Prepare Yourself
Going back to school can be hard for kids. But, it can also be hard for parents. Many parents have mixed emotions with the start of a new year. Make sure you work through your feelings so that you are able to help your children with theirs.
Also, consider ordering yourself a cookie box delivery ahead of time to enjoy while your kids are at school. Order a second box to share with them. Once the kids are at school, take some time to relax and prepare for a great afternoon with your kids.
The Big Day
Once the big day finally arrives and you’ve done all you can to prepare your child, there are just a few things left to ensure they have a great first day of school.
1. Special Breakfast
Start the day off right with a special back-to-school breakfast. Let your kid(s) pick out what’s on the menu, and be sure to add an extra dash of love to the mix.
2. Pack A Comforting Item
Some kids have an especially tough time leaving home and separating from their parents. Having a special item that reminds them of home or you can bring them comfort at school.
Pack a small favorite item in their backpack. This could include a small blanket or stuffed animal. Just be sure they know to keep it in their backpack until the school day is over. They can even keep a small rock in their pocket to remind them of home.
Another idea is to buy or make matching bracelets—one for you and one for them. Looking at the bracelet and knowing you are wearing the same one will help them feel connected to you.
3. Photo-Ops
Taking pictures on the first day of school is a must. A simple picture in front of your house or the school will do, or give the photos a little extra flare with a fun sign.
4. Pack A Special Lunch
If lunch from home is something your child would enjoy, pack something special for their first day. This could include their favorite food or dessert, such as gourmet peanut butter cookies.
Add a note inside their lunchbox to make them feel extra special. Express your love for them, how proud you are of them, or even share a funny joke.
5. First-Day Car Ride
Even if your child will ride the bus, make the first day memorable by driving them to school. If they are young, they may want you to hold their hand and walk them into school.
6. Positivity
Your mood and outlook will affect your child, so keep things light, fun, and positive.
7. After-School Fun
Finally, after a long first day of school, your child deserves a little after-school fun. Have them tell you all about their day as you walk to the park, go out for ice cream, or make gourmet cookies together. (Or see tip 10 above: leave it to the experts and order them.)
Whatever you do, just be present with your child. Let them know you are proud of them for making it through the day.
As you strive to make the first day of school extra sweet for your child, the most important tip to remember is to do it all with love and support. And maybe some cookies.