Six back to school tips for parents

After the long summer holidays, it is finally time to get back to school. Preparing for the new session is usually exciting and overwhelming for both the parents and children.

For parents, it is a time to ensure that their children are prepared for the adventures and challenges that lie ahead. For kids, it might take time to adjust to a different routine.

However, here are back-to-school tips to ease the transition.

• Set a routine

Start transitioning your child back to a school schedule by gradually adjusting their routine. A consistent routine helps children ease into the school year.

First and foremost, adjust their bedtime and wake-up times to the time they will be getting up for school.

Getting enough sleep is critical for kids to stay healthy and be successful in school. Not getting enough sleep, on the other hand, has been associated with lower academic achievement.

Secondly, limit their screen time. Establish the screen time that will be used during the school week to maintain a healthy balance between academics and recreational activities.

It is also advisable to start aligning their meals with the school day before it begins.

• Stay organised

The school year can be chaotic with multiple deadlines and activities popping up. So you need to be organised to stay on top of the game.

You can use a calendar where all activities’ due dates are easy to spot.

Also, make a checklist of school supplies your child will need, including books, stationery, backpacks, and uniforms. Get organized early to avoid last-minute rushes.

• Plan healthy eating habits

The children’s school meals tend to be a source of stress for many parents.

However, with some planning, you can ensure your child has a healthy meal during the school period.

You can start by getting meal ideas from your children. Asking them about meal options they would love to be added to their diet during school period.

After getting the idea, you can then create a meal plan for them.

Remember to consider including various fruits, vegetables, protein sources, and whole grains.

• Communicate

Talk to your child about their feelings, worries and expectations for the new school year.

Address concerns they may have and provide reassurance. Also, let them know about the fun and exciting things that tend to happen during the school period. This will help them get even more excited about resumption.

Also, plan to communicate regularly with your children’s school including their teachers. This will help you know how they are doing academically, behaviorally and socially.

Remember to also have a conversation around safety measures. Talk to your children about the danger of meeting strangers, road safety and reporting uncomfortable situations.

• Plan for homework

Make a plan for where and when homework will be happening to prevent them from lagging behind.

Establish a time and space for homework and study. Also, minimise distractions in homework areas to enhance focus and productivity.

• Set academic goals

Setting academic goals with your children is an excellent way to motivate them and set them up for academic success.

Encourage them to think about what they want to achieve academically, which could include improving in a particular subject, getting a specific grade and signing up for extra curriculum activities.

Plan the steps that would be taken to achieve these goals in relation to your children’s strengths. Regularly check in to review their goals and provide support and encouragement.

Also, recognize and celebrate their achievement no matter how small. This can motivate them to do more and also boost their confidence.