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Back to School Season is Here

Parents and students can find back to school season both fun and stressful. Here are some tips to help easing back into the school year less stressful.

Returning to Daily Routines

Most of us fall off our daily routine during the summer, and that is totally okay. Now that back to school season is here, I recommend re-starting your daily return at least 2 weeks before hand so that kids can get used to the early mornings and associated tasks. Going along with that, includes shifting their bed time earlier each day until they reach their bed time for the school year. It can be helpful to include downtime before bed where the children play quietly or get their things ready for the next day, like clothes, prepping their bookbag, etc.

If your child will participate in after school activities or sports, it can helpful to make an evening calendar, accounting for activities, dinner time, homework, chores, relaxing, etc.

Screen Time

Screen time rules are often relaxed over the breaks so as we begin to approach the school year we should consider reigning in the digital time to no more than 2 hours per day.

Too much screen time can lead to sleep problems, mood problems, less physical activity, less reading of books , etc.

Preparation

Ensuring your child is adequately prepared will help the school year start off smoothly.

• Find a well fitted backpack to avoid physical strain on the child

• Obtain school supplies

• Plan transportation and discuss rules (bus, walking, car, no phone use while driving, no pit stops that parent isn’t already aware of when walking home, etc)

• Look at the school academic calendar to plan for days off, school events, parent-teacher conferences. Note these important dates on your family’s calendar in advance.

• Think about After School Plan. Will your child participate in after school activities or sports, will you need before/after care?

Managing Mental Health

• As a parent, delegate tasks as needed to family or other caregivers. Set realistic goals so that you do not get overwhelmed.

• Check in with your child about school , friends, activities

• Be on alert for bullying and cyberbullying

  • The National Association of School Psychologists has some helpful information on ways to deal with your child being bullied or if your child is the bully.

Let’s get ready for a great school year!