The summer break is winding down and the first day of school is on the horizon! The thought of transitioning from vacation mode back to academic routines can feel intimidating for both kids and parents alike. However, getting ready to go back to school doesn’t have to be a negative experience!
With a little preparation and a few simple adjustments, you can make the return to school smoother and less stressful. Here are some practical tips from Frontier Pediatric Partners to help your family ease back into the school routine!
1. Start Adjusting Sleep Schedules Early
Sleep schedules are one of the biggest adjustments for kids returning to school. Shifting from a relaxed summer sleep schedule to the more structured schedule required during the school year can be hard. Summer often means later bedtimes and more flexible wake-up times. However, as the first day of school approaches, it’s necessary to start transitioning back to a more consistent schedule.
Begin by gradually shifting your child’s bedtime and wake-up time by 15 to 30 minutes earlier each day. This gradual adjustment helps their internal clock acclimate without causing too much disruption. Consistent sleep routines are crucial for a successful school year. Adequate sleep enhances concentration, mood, and overall health, making the transition back to school less jarring.
2. Brush Up on School Skills
While the summer break is a valuable time for relaxation and exploration, a little bit of academic review can make a significant difference in how your child eases back into the school routine. Reinforcing basic skills in reading and math can boost their confidence and readiness for the new academic year!
Consider incorporating some of these fun, low-pressure review activities into your child’s daily routine. This doesn’t have to be limited to summertime, either. Help your child become a lifelong learner by encouraging them to use their skills in low-stakes scenarios in everyday life outside of school! These activities help keep skills sharp without feeling like a chore.
Reading
- Visit the library together to pick out books that interest them
- Engage in interactive storytelling sessions
Math
- Incorporate practical problems into everyday activities, like calculating the cost of groceries or figuring out fractions while cooking
- Reduce anxiety around math by encouraging kids to make mistakes in these low-stakes activities
Science
- Visit a zoo, aquarium, or other ecological center near you — The Twin Falls Zoo and the Hagerman Fossil Beds are both great local science education opportunities
- Buy science kits or do your own classic at-home experiments like baking soda volcanoes or cloud slime – check out our cloud slime recipe on Facebook for instructions
Art
- Encourage your kids to explore their artistic side by giving them supplies such as paints, pencils, and more
- Libraries can be a great resource for creativity and artistry — encourage your children to look at examples of art throughout history
3. Establish a Back-to-School Routine
In addition to adjusting sleep schedules and academic skills, setting up a back-to-school routine can help your child feel more organized and prepared. Create a daily schedule that includes time for homework, extracurricular activities, and relaxation. Involve your child in this process to give them a sense of ownership and responsibility.
A visual schedule, such as a chart or planner, can be a helpful tool for younger children. It can provide a clear overview of what to expect each day, reducing anxiety and helping them manage their time more effectively. For older children, a planner or digital calendar can help them keep track of assignments and deadlines.
4. Reestablish Healthy Eating Habits
Just as sleep and academic routines need adjustment, so does your child’s diet. After months of flexible eating habits, it’s time to reestablish a balanced diet that supports their energy levels and concentration at school. A nutritious breakfast each morning, packed with protein and whole grains, can help kids start their school day off right.
A balanced lunch and snacks during school are also important! Involve your child in planning and preparing their lunch to ensure they’re excited about their meals and more likely to eat healthily. This approach not only promotes good eating habits but also helps them take responsibility for their well-being.
5. Organize School Supplies and Gear
“Getting organized” for school means more than just academic preparation; it also means providing your child with all of the necessary supplies and gear. Spend a day together gathering and organizing school supplies, from notebooks and pencils to backpacks and lunchboxes. This can be a fun and engaging activity that also helps your child feel prepared and excited for the school year.
Check the school’s supply list to make sure you have everything needed and involve your child in choosing their own supplies. This can be a great way to get them enthusiastic about going back to school and ensure they feel well-prepared.
6. Discuss and Address Any Concerns
Returning to school can be an emotional experience for children, especially if they are transitioning to a new grade or school. Open communication is key. Take some time to discuss any concerns or anxieties your child might have about the upcoming school year. Encourage them to express their feelings and reassure them that it’s normal to feel nervous.
Empathize with their concerns and provide support and encouragement. Sometimes, just knowing they have a safe space to talk about their feelings can make a significant difference in their confidence and readiness.
7. Schedule a Pediatric Check Up
Your child’s pediatrician is there for more than just treating illnesses! Just like adults benefit from regular health check-ups, kids can also benefit from regular visits with their doctor. Back-to-school season is an excellent time to visit your pediatrician. Every child is unique and has their own unique needs. Your child’s pediatrician can provide you with specific, individualized guidance on areas such as dietary needs, sleep schedules, mental health, and overall wellness.
If you live in the Magic Valley, we’d love to see your family at Frontier Pediatric Partners! Our professional pediatricians in Twin Falls are here to provide healthcare tailored to your child. Plus, our Twin Falls Pediatrician’s Office is kid-approved with plenty of fun activities to make sure that the experience of going to the doctor is a positive one! Call us to schedule an appointment at Frontier Pediatric Partners, today!
Back-to-School Season Doesn’t Have to be Stressful!
Getting kids ready to go back to school doesn’t have to be stressful. By making gradual adjustments to sleep schedules, brushing up on academic skills, establishing routines, and organizing supplies, you can set the stage for a successful and smooth transition. Remember, small changes can make a big difference, and with a bit of planning and preparation, you can help ensure that the first week back is a positive and exciting experience for your child.
Back-to-school season is in the fall, and unfortunately, so is cold and flu season. Check out Frontier Pediatric Partners’ guide on Fall Illness Prevention to learn some prevention strategies such as regular hand washing, dressing for the weather, and regular checkups! Even with preventative care, it’s only natural that your kids will eventually come down with a cold or the flu. Watch our video guide on Caring for Kids During Cold & Flu Season for tips on keeping them comfortable and helping with their recovery.
