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.
The first day of school at Goddard starts September 4th. We will be having a special back to school night for adults only on September 27th at 7:00pm. Come join us for wine and hors d'oeurves and learn about the new school year.
Interested in enrolling your child at Goaddard? We have open enrollment all year long, so there are no deadlines to hit or miss. Give us a call at 732-974-8314 to schedule a tour and to meet with our director Samantha!
