With the carefree days of summer quickly coming to an end and the start of school right around the corner, it can be difficult for kids and adults alike to get back into a regular schedule. The mornings of sleeping in, playful activities and leisurely eating lunches are replaced with 6AM wake up times, lots of homework assignments and prepacking lunches. But going back to school doesn’t have to be a daunting or exhausting time for you or your kids if you plan ahead and identify some strategies to help keep your family organized during this time. Listed below are some tips and tricks on how parents can get a jump start on the school year and help with the transition in hopes to make it a good experience for everyone.

 

1.)  Start a “School Time” bedtime and wake-up sleep schedule for your kids a week or two before their first day back.

2.)  Create a family calendar to track commitments and activities, and set up weekly meetings to review the kids’ schedules.

3.)  Sit down with your kids and have them set goals for the new year.

4.)  Reestablish the rules for the school year with what’s allowed and when, i.e. screen time, chores, etc.

5.)  Plan out healthy, protein-rich snacks and lunches that are balanced with vegetables, fruits and other wholesome items.  

6.)  Organize clothing for the year to see what you may need to shop for before school begins.

7.)  Visit the school with your kids to get acclimated with their new setting and meet the teachers.

8.)  Review the list of books, school supplies and technology that your kids will need. Go through last years’ school supplies and buy all items that you don’t have as early as possible.

9.)  Lastly, discuss with your kids what they can expect on their first day in hopes to alleviate any anxiety about the new year. Ask them questions about what may be worrying them and talk through these issues to ensure a smooth start to the school year.