Going back to school after summer break can be a stressful time for children and parents. Use these tips to help your kids develop healthy habits and organized routines as they return to learning.
Establishing structure and good habits are the keys to a successful transition back to school says Susan Panichelli Mindel, PhD, associate professor and director of research in clinical psychology at PCOM. Dr. Panichelli Mindel offers several tips for families going back to school. Her advice includes establishing bedtime and homework routines, eating healthy and socializing.
A good night's sleep is important for children to be successful in school. Poor sleep habits may result in poor concentration and behavioral problems.
Establish a set bedtime at least two weeks before school starts to readjust to the weekday wake-up time. In the same week or two, create a routine for the morning rush to school: waking up, showering, eating breakfast, packing lunches, gathering school supplies, etc. Establishing routines before the first day back will ensure the time change is less stressful and will make the back to school routine much easier to adjust to.
Whether your child is new to the school or not, it can be helpful to have a couple of playdates with a friend from school to get reacquainted and help feel more comfortable on the first day back. Attending back-to-school or meet-and-greet events prior to the first day may also help relieve children's anxiety about returning to school.
Most schools or teachers will send families a list of necessary school supplies. Purchase school supplies early and allow your children to familiarize themselves with their books, notebooks, writing utensils and electronics. Encourage the use of planner to help keep track of assignments throughout the school year.
Starting at a young age, create a homework-friendly environment at home. Create study spaces conducive for homework completion. Children need a consistent workspace in their bedroom or another quiet part of the house that is free of distractions and promotes good study habits. Schedule appropriate time for homework assignments and make sure unneeded electronics are turned off during homework time.
Take time in the last weeks of summer to talk to your children about what it will be like to start school again. Allow them to express any concerns and problem-solve anticipated issues. Provide positive perspective and advice to help ease anxieties about heading back to school.
Once school begins, spend bedtime, bath time or other quiet times during the afternoon or evening to talk with your children one-on-one. Use this opportunity to check in about how their day went and ready them for the next school day.
Studies show that children function better at school if they start their day with a nutritious breakfast. A healthy breakfast promotes better concentration and more energy. Prepare a healthy breakfast such as whole wheat grains (oatmeal, cereals, waffles, toast), fresh fruit and a protein.
Pack healthy lunches and snacks for your children including fruit, vegetables and whole grain crackers. Eschew foods with large amounts of saturated fats or lots of added sugar. Drinks should include water, 100% fruit juices or low-fat milk. Avoid soda, sports drinks and other sugary beverages.
Establish connections with teachers a few weeks before back to school to encourage easy communication and get to know their teaching philosophies. If your kids are starting at a new school, ask for a tour and an opportunity to meet with teachers before the school year begins. If possible, bring your children to the school grounds a few days prior to class to play on a playground or sports field and allow them to get comfortable with the environment.
PCOM's school psychology programs train professionals to facilitate healthy development in children by resolving learning and behavioral problems. PCOM psychology students are trained to provide services including consultation, assessment and educational program development. Our graduates a prepared for career opportunities in a variety of settings including public and private schools, counseling centers, community organizations and more.
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