The summer is coming to an end, and it’s almost time for school again. The last few weeks of summer can be trying for many as they figure out how to motivate their children and start to set up plans and routines for the school year. Whether it’s the first time your children are coming to school or if they’re coming back after a break, it’s important to hit the ground running
Going back to school can be overwhelming, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can prepare your entire family for the season. This article will explore a few ways to nurture a seamless transition so your kids can start the school year on the right foot.
Humans, like many other animals, are creatures of habit and routine. It gives us a sense of security and allows us to focus on the unforeseen as our body goes through the motions and prepares for the day. It also encourages responsibility and accountability because every member of the family is responsible for their own side of the routine. As adults, parents know the importance of routine, but kids may struggle to find one with which they are comfortable.
The secret to a strong routine is two-fold. On the one hand, start early. Instead of waiting for a week before school, start a month early—extra points for keeping up the routine during the break. Summer break is an excellent opportunity to revisit the routine and see what aspects work and where you can adjust. Will they be coming back to the same schedule? Are there any new elements during the morning before school or later in the afternoon?
On the other hand, practice patience. Part of a child’s development insists on some pushback against routine activities. Distractions, curiosity, and boredom are all common reasons why a child may struggle to keep up. Remember, as you try to set up a routine, that your child’s body and mind are growing, and while things may be a priority for you, they may not be so for the child. Be patient and compassionate; they still have a full day of school ahead of them.
Part of the new routine should also involve a few changes to the household. Set up a space dedicated to homework to avoid associating the bedroom or playroom with the stress of study.
School can be stressful for a variety of reasons. For younger kids, it means being away from their parents for most of the day. For older children, it involves expectations and the conflict inherent in learning and evaluation. For parents, it means not hanging out with their kids and returning to the struggles of homework, projects, and tests. Fortunately, they both have each other as coping partners for the coming change.
As the school year approaches, make some time to talk to your child about their expectations for the coming year. What do they want from the school year? What are they excited about? What are they not too thrilled about? Use this chance to remind them that the learning process involves making mistakes and that effort is what drives true learning. Remember to stay positive and realistic and to nurture open, honest communication.
Maryvale offers Community-Based Services that provide mental health treatment for individuals up to 21 years of age. These services include intensive wrap-around options that can help families cope with the stress of returning to school. Encouraging open communication and addressing children’s anxieties are key components of Maryvale’s mental health support.
It’s natural for children to be anxious about the school year. As we’ve mentioned, it can be demanding, combining the discomfort of growing up with the conflict natural to social interactions. In addition to offering a positive mindset, there are many ways to help your children address their anxieties and prepare for the return to school.
Younger children can benefit from nurturing their relationships with other kids in their grade. Set up playdates with their friends; socializing can improve their outlook for the coming year and motivate your child to continue studying together. Engaging with their teacher and any relevant school staff is another way for younger children to feel more comfortable about going back to school.
Stay involved with the school’s activities for children and parents. Attend school events to ask questions about your child’s performance and experience. Work together to figure out ways to address any concerns. This part is especially important for kids transferring to new schools, as familiarity can drive their motivation.
Maryvale’s Early Childhood Education program provides a safe, inclusive learning environment that focuses on the whole child, laying the foundation for lifelong success. By nurturing relationships and engaging with school staff, children feel more comfortable and supported.
Self-Care
Just because the summer break is over doesn’t mean that self-care and rest are over. You can explore healthy self-care practices for your children and yourself to cope with the everyday complications that may arise.
School time is almost here. Stay positive and friendly, and take any chance you get to ease the transition back to the new grade. Changes can be tricky, especially after months dedicated to playing around and spending time with friends. Pushback is always to be expected, but following the steps in this guide should help you and your kids view this change in a more positive light.
At Maryvale, we believe in the power of community and support. To discover more about our mission and how we can assist your family, visit our website or contact us at (626) 280-6510. Let’s work together to create a brighter future!