10 Tips for Breaking In the Back to School

As the summer rolls to a bittersweet end, the beginning of a new school year is right around the corner. Here at Goddard, we are excited to start a new year of fun and learning! 

We know that this time of year can be stressful for parents as well as children. For kids, the end of summer means an abrupt end to staying up late and playing all day. It also signals the beginning of brand new challenges and perhaps a case of the back-to-school jitters. For parents, the chaos of preparing for school and the stress that comes along with it can be overwhelming. 

We know that this time of year can be stressful for parents as well as children. For kids, the end of summer means an abrupt end to staying up late and playing all day. It also signals the beginning of brand new challenges and perhaps a case of the back-to-school jitters. For parents, the chaos of preparing for school and the stress that comes along with it can be overwhelming. 

Here is a quick list of 10 tips to start a successful, stress free school year! 

1. If you and your child have fallen out of your bedtime routine this summer, get back into it! - A week before the first day of school is a good time frame to get back into a regular bedtime schedule.

2. Shop for healthy breakfast and lunches a week in advance - this will save you time and prevent stress in the long run.

3. Go shopping for school supplies together - shopping from a teacher-supplied list will ensure your child has the right supplies and could save you a ton of money and time.

4. Save time on those busy school mornings by preparing your child's clothes a week ahead of time - place a pair of socks, underwear, a shirt, and matching bottoms together in the drawer so that your child can easily grab 'em and go.

5. Support positive study habits early! - create a homework center – a specific area in the house where your child can do homework each evening. Make sure that it's in a quiet place and stocked with plenty of supplies.

6. Pack light - a backpack should never weigh more than 10-20% percent of the student's body weight. Use both shoulder straps; slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.

7. Prepare your child for social situations in the classroom - a certain level of social anxiety is normal for elementary school aged kids. Teach your child to introduce them self and make friends. Play various social scenarios with them, from sharing classroom supplies to encounters with other kids.

8. Keep encouraging literacy at home - read frequently with your children and make trips to the local library.

9. If you pack your child's lunch, write them a little note - a reminder that you're thinking about them can make a rough day better.

10. Parent involvement in education in education is important throughout elementary school! - talk to your child’s teacher regularly about their educational and social development.