Back to…already?
It seems that major retailers clear out Fourth of
July displays and bring in the Back to School displays…much to the dismay of
children around the country. In the spirit of the Back to School supplies
everywhere, I’d thought I’d send out a blog about getting your family ready for
the start of school.
(1) Re-establish
those School Routines - For younger children it is wise to start backing
that bedtime up so it’s not such a shock on the first day of school. Also,
start moving wake-up times earlier during the last two weeks of summer.
(2) Keep
Morning Madness to a Minimum – Mornings with children were always hectic in
my household. It takes practice to have everything down to a science to make
your mornings enjoyable. It’s a good idea to have those school clothes out the
night before, lunches packed and ready to go, homework checked and in the
backpack, notes to the teacher, permission slips signed, etc. All these take
practice to help you get to school on time in the morning.
(3) Attend
Orientations and Meet and Greet at the School – Whether you are new to a
school, or a seasoned veteran, meet the teacher and check out the classroom
with your child. This calms much of the anxiety they may have about the new
school year. This also provides you practice if you drive your children to
school. How long does it take? Am I taking the best path in terms of morning
traffic? How does carpool work?
(4) Make a
Sick Day Plan – With most families having both parents working, this is
critical. You don’t want your child waiting at school feeling terrible, so it’s
best you have a plan ready to go.
If you have multiple children, find a family who lives nearby who can
help with carpooling. The school should help you with a list of those who live
near you.
(5) Create
an After School Plan – Your child should have a regular time and place for
homework designated within your home. It makes homework easier to manage when
your child has supplies they need right there, instead of asking you every four
minutes where the ruler is.
(6) Make
the Process a Family Affair – Be aware of school events and programs and
try to join in as a family. Be involved with the school through volunteering.
Those who work during the day can still volunteer. Teachers have tons of projects
for volunteers that can be done at home.
(7) Stay in
Touch – Ask the teacher how they prefer to be contacted. Some like texts,
others emails, and still others phone calls. Know how and when your teacher
likes to communicate.
(8) Make
the First Day Memorable - First day pictures adorn FaceBook every year.
Perhaps you would like to make a special breakfast that first morning. Others
may go out to dinner to celebrate a successful first day. You may want to write
a special note for your child’s lunch. You know your children the best, match
up a special event to celebrate that first day.
This will be my thirty-first first day of school
as an adult. I still get excited about the start of every new school year. Now
I just need to follow these eight steps!
