As the holidays come to a close, it’s normal for children and parents alike to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. Shifting from relaxed holiday routines back to the structure of school can be challenging, but with thoughtful planning, the transition can be smooth and even enjoyable. Here are some practical tips to help both you and your child prepare for the upcoming school term.
- Gradually Adjust Bedtimes
During the holidays, kids often enjoy staying up late and sleeping in, but as school approaches, it’s important to help them adjust to earlier wake-up times. Start by shifting their bedtime earlier by 10-15 minutes each night, and gradually wake them up earlier as well. This slow transition helps their bodies adjust naturally, so they aren’t overtired when school starts.
Tip: Make bedtime more relaxing by reading together or practicing quiet time before bed. Limiting screen time in the evenings can also help them wind down more easily.
- Reintroduce Morning and Evening Routines
Routines give children a sense of stability and help reduce stress. A week before school begins, try to establish a simple morning and evening routine that mimics the school day. Have them get dressed, eat breakfast at a regular time, and practice packing a school bag, even if they’re not heading anywhere. In the evening, set out clothes and organize their space to make mornings easier.
Tip: Use a visual schedule for younger children so they can see what tasks need to be done and in what order. This makes routines more engaging and fun.
- Organize School Supplies Together
Involving your child in preparing for school helps build excitement. Let them pick out a backpack, lunch box, or some new stationery. Organizing their supplies together is a great way to get them thinking about the upcoming term. You can even create a “first day of school kit” with essentials like a water bottle, snacks, and any other items they’ll need.
Tip: Label their items together and show them where to store everything, so they feel responsible for taking care of their belongings.
- Talk About School in a Positive Light
Children may feel a bit anxious about going back to school, especially after a long break. To ease their worries, talk to them about the fun aspects of school—like seeing friends, learning new things, and playing at recess. Keep the conversation positive and reassuring. Ask them what they’re most looking forward to, and if they have any concerns, address them calmly.
Tip: Share stories about your own experiences with school. Letting them know it’s normal to feel nervous sometimes can help ease their jitters.
- Practice Independence
Encourage your child to practice simple tasks they’ll need to manage at school, such as putting on their shoes, zipping their backpack, or packing their lunch. These small acts of independence not only build confidence but also help your child feel more prepared for school life.
Tip: Create a fun “get ready” challenge where they can earn a small reward for doing tasks by themselves in the mornings.
- Create a Countdown Calendar
To build excitement, create a countdown calendar leading up to the first day of school. Each day, you can mark off a square and do a fun activity related to school, like reading a special book, practicing letters or numbers, or doing an arts and crafts project. The countdown adds anticipation and makes the return to school feel more celebratory.
Tip: Use stickers or coloured markers to make the calendar visually appealing. Let your child decorate it themselves to make it more personal.
- Ease First-Day Jitters
Even returning students can experience first-day jitters. Remind your child that it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous, and that everyone else is feeling the same way. Talk about all the familiar things they’ll see, like their classroom, teachers, and friends, and let them know you’re proud of them for being brave.
Tip: On the first day, keep the morning light and positive. Give them a comforting hug, a special note in their lunchbox, or a fun surprise for after school to look forward to.
- Ensure They’re Well Rested and Fed
Getting enough sleep and having a nutritious breakfast are key to a successful start to the school year. Ensure your child is well-rested and has a healthy breakfast that includes a mix of protein, whole grains, and fruits. This will give them the energy they need to focus and feel their best throughout the day.
Tip: If mornings are rushed, prepare breakfast items the night before. Quick options like overnight oats or smoothies can save time while still being nutritious.
Conclusion
The transition back to school doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and preparation, you can make the start of the new term exciting and manageable for both you and your child. By reintroducing routines, creating a positive atmosphere, and helping them feel prepared, you’ll set them up for success in the coming school year.
At ChildSol Creche & Pre-School, we’re excited to welcome your children back for another wonderful term of learning, growth, and fun! Stay tuned for more tips and updates as we approach the new school year.