Back to School Preparations
It’s hard to believe that another school year is right around the corner! If you have a child who will be starting preschool or kindergarten, you might be feeling a mix of emotions. Excitement, anxiety, pride…it’s all normal! Getting your child ready for school is a big deal, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare your little one for a successful school year.
Talk about School
Maybe this sounds obvious, but start talking about school a few weeks before the big day. Getting your kids used to the idea that this will be happening and all the fun and exciting things they can expect makes a big difference. Explain what will happen during the day and how much fun it will be to learn and make new friends. The sooner that you start talking about the transition the easier it might be.
If your child is someone that needs to know the order of things, you might practice going through the day’s schedule. For example, waking up at the time they’ll need to for school and having breakfast. Walking to the bus stop or driving to the school building. You might even be able to talk with the teacher or staff and walk through the classroom. Try to run through the whole day. This can really help kids who have anxiety about big changes.
Visiting Your Child’s School
Even if you don’t need to do the full day, pay a visit to the school. If your child hasn’t already had a chance to visit their new school, try and schedule a time to do so. This will help familiarize them with the building and surroundings. Many programs offer orientations or open house times – take advantage!
Practice basic skills.
If your child is starting kindergarten, they will need to know some basic skills like how to write their name and count to 10. If your child is starting preschool, practicing these skills isn’t as important but it can be helpful. Some schools will have a list of these available to parents if you ask.
Some of the simple tasks you can practice at home include;
- putting on and tying shoes/boots alone
- how to put on and take off a jacket or sweater
- practice putting away school supplies
- cutting and gluing paper
- color recognition
- recognizing their own name
- Using the toilet alone start to finish and washing hands
Get a good night’s sleep.
It’s important for your child to get a good night’s sleep before their first day of school. This will help them be alert and ready to learn. You may need to start planning for this before the first day of school especially if summer bedtimes have been a bit all over the place.
Create a bedtime routine and stick to it as much as possible. This might include taking a bath, reading a book, or singing a good night song. Having a set routine will help your child wind down and prepare for sleep.
Second, avoid screen time in the hour before bed. The bright lights from phones, tablets, and TVs can stimulate the brain and make it harder to fall asleep. Instead, opt for quiet activities like puzzles or coloring.
Finally, make sure your child’s bedroom is cool, dark, and comfortable. This will create an ideal environment for sleep.
Start implementing your routine at least a week before school starts but the earlier the better. It will help make the transition easier.
Pack a healthy lunch
If your child will be going to a full-day program, you’ll want to make sure they have lunch, or they’re signed up for the school lunch program. Lunchtime is an important part of the day for kids.
Packing a healthy lunch that will give them the energy they need to make it through the afternoon will make a big difference. Don’t forget to include an item or two that you know they’ll enjoy and eat for sure. The first days of the new year may have them less interested in what’s offered but familiar food from home can help make it easier.
By following these tips, you can help your child feel confident and prepared for their first day of school. And remember, it’s okay to feel a little nervous too!
bento lunch boxes
school journal
kids school backpack
insulated water bottle
