Going back-to-school can be intimidating or even a little frightening for children of all ages, especially when they’ve spent so much time away from traditional in-classroom learning over the last couple of years. Getting yourself and your kids prepped a few days ahead of time can help to take the sting out of the first day, for both parents and children.
Helpful back-to-school tips to make the transition easier.
- Get Some Sleep
Gently reintroducing the normal pre-holiday sleep patterns gives young bodies and minds some time to adjust. To establish sleep regular behaviours, the National Sleep Foundation recommends starting two weeks before the first day of school.
- Reduce Screen Time
According to Deakin University’s Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, in the first half of 2020, children aged 5 to 12 were found to have spent more than a day of extra time each week looking at a screen (homeschooling would have been a big factor here). Manage their screen time by setting a daily limit and restricting usage time, by planning hands-on activities to help ease the transition.
- Have a Conversation
Feeling anxious, scared, and overwhelmed about returning to school is totally normal. Have a chat about any worries your children might have and then engage them in conversation about what they’re looking forward to about school. Creating a fun countdown calendar together and even driving them past their school a few days before they return, can be quite beneficial in reminding them of the fun things about school, and getting them excited to go back.
- Take them Back-to-school Shopping!
Back-to-school stationery shopping is always fun, with kids keen to get their hands on fresh new pens, pencils, and art supplies. Make the transition to the new school year enjoyable by getting them involved. They can help label items, cover their exercise books and folders, and pack their pencil case!
- Promote Healthy Habits
Incorporating some new habits can help your child get off to a good start. Make sure they get enough sleep and eat nutritious foods as it helps to preserve brain function and allows them to focus and pay more attention in school. Remind them to drink plenty of water as staying hydrated allows nutrients to pass through the body more effectively.
Remember that as a parent you need to unwind too! Back-to-school can be just as hectic and stressful for parents as it is for their children. During this transitional period, take care of yourself by engaging in some self-care, taking time to breathe, and congratulating yourself on getting through yet another school holiday!
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