Getting Ready
According to the author and child psychologist Lawrence Balter, "If parents show enthusiasm about the new school year and include their children in the preparation, it will help them get excited about it and make it easier on parents those first few days." Dr. Balter also recommends adjusting bedtimes, bath times, and television routines at least one week before school starts to begin to establish the school schedule.
Many children get excited about shopping for school supplies or picking out a new lunch box or pair of sneakers. And while advertisers may try to persuade us that children need an entirely new back-to-school wardrobe, experts caution that comfort and convenience are the top priorities, especially for young children's clothing. If you have an older child, find out if their school has a dress code, and determine a budget and style guidelines before you head to the mall.
Preparing for the first day of school
Whether your child is five year old and entering kindergarten or 15 years old and starting high school, they will undoubtedly be anxious about what to expect. Doing whatever you can to familiarize them with the building and the routine ahead of time might help make the experience less stressful. Dr. Balter suggests contacting the school to arrange a tour ahead of time and meet the teachers(s). Knowing where to find the classroom, bathroom, cafeteria and playground gives children a concrete sense of what being in school will feel like. Walking the route to school or driving the bus route will further prepare your child and help reduce their fear of the unknown. To learn more about how to transition your child(ren) from summer vacation back to school, click here.