How to Prepare Kids For Going Back To School

For some students, preparing to return to school is exciting. The rite of passage into the next grade is accented with new school supplies, new clothes, and the excitement of new teachers.

But other students may not be as prepared to return to school as others. Anxiety can be a stumbling block that inhibits success at the start of the school year.

Regardless of how your child feels about returning to school, a few extra tips can help he or she get mentally back in shape for the classroom.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Books
• Library Card
• Time

1. ENCOURAGE READING: In the summer heat, studying is the last thing on a school-bound student's mind. Setting aside time to read with your child can help them prepare for the going back to school. Instead of overwhelming a child with hours of reading, choose one or two favorite books and keep reading time to 30 minutes or less each day.

2. USE FLASH CARDS: For some school-age children, refreshing the mind is as easy as pushing through a stack of flash cards. A quick round of multiplication flash cards is a fast and easy way to stimulate learning.

3. SHOP FOR SCHOOL SUPPLIES: Many children enjoy getting new things before the start of the school year. While shopping for school supplies, pay close attention to the required supplies list provided by the school, to avoid unnecessary purchases. While you and your child organize school supplies, discuss any concerns he or she may have about returning to school.

4. SET EXPECTATIONS OF YOUR STUDENT: Setting expectations prior to the start of the school year allows the student to work toward a goal from the start. For instance, if there is a reward for high marks at the end of each term, spelling it out at the start sets them up for success.

5. ESTABLISH A ROUTINE: Prior to the start of a new school year, begin establishing a routine that will continue throughout the year. Your child will sleep better and feel rested and alert if wake-up time and bedtime have been enforced for two weeks prior to the start of school.

Tips & Warnings

• Local libraries often contain recommended reading lists for each school. A librarian can help you identify which books your child's school has determined to be appropriate for the child's education level.
• Gradually establish a new night time routine about three weeks prior to the start of school.