Helping Kids Get Back into the School Routine
As summer winds down and the first day of school approaches, it's natural for children to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. Some of our students call this feeling “nerv-cited”. As parents, guardians, and educators, we play a crucial role in helping them transition smoothly into the new school year. Here are some effective strategies to support your child in mentally preparing for school:
1. Establish a Routine
Children thrive on routine, and re-establishing a school-year schedule can ease the transition:
-
Gradual Adjustment: Begin adjusting bedtime and wake-up times a few weeks before school starts.
-
Consistent Schedule: Create a daily routine that includes time for family time, homework, chores, extracurricular activities, and relaxation.
2. Open Communication
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the upcoming school year:
- Reflective Listening: Listen to their concerns and validate their feelings without judgment by reflecting on what they share back to them.
- Simple reflection: summarize what they said using their words and ideas. “What I heard you say is…”Reflect feelings: “You’re feeling…”Reflect values: “It’s important to you that…”
- Positive Reinforcement: Highlight the positive aspects of school, such as seeing friends, learning new things, and participating in fun activities.
3. Visit Westside
As the new school year approaches, children have the opportunity to visit the school and meet their teachers:
Early Learning & Middle School Conferences:
Scheduled for August 28 and 29, these conferences are a chance for Early Learning and Middle School students to visit the school with their parents or guardians. Early learners can explore their new classroom and meet their teachers, while Middle School students actively participate in their education by leading their conferences with advisors. Note that there are lower school parent/guardian-teacher conferences, but students do not attend.
Lower School Meet the Teacher:
Lower School students can visit the school on Tuesday, September 3, during the Lower School Meet the Teacher event. This allows them to see their classroom spaces and meet their teachers in preparation for the upcoming school year.
4. Set Goals Together
Help your child set realistic and achievable goals for the school year:
- Academic Goals: Discuss what they hope to achieve academically and how they can work towards those goals.
- Personal Growth: Encourage them to set goals related to personal development, such as making new friends or trying a new activity.
5. Encourage Independence
Promote your child's independence and self-confidence:
- Responsibility: Assign age-appropriate responsibilities, such as packing their school bag or choosing their outfit for the next day.
- Problem-Solving: Encourage them to think of solutions to potential challenges they might face at school.
6. Create a Positive Learning Environment
Foster a love for learning at home:
- Reading Time: Set aside time each day for reading. Choose books that align with their interests. Check out book recommendations from Westside Librarian Whitney Winn.
- Learning Activities: Engage in fun and educational activities that stimulate their curiosity and creativity.
7. Promote Healthy Habits
Healthy habits contribute to a positive mindset:
- Balanced Diet: Ensure your child eats a nutritious diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Physical Activity: Encourage regular physical activity to boost their mood and energy levels.
- Adequate Sleep: Ensure they get enough sleep each night, as rest is essential for cognitive function and emotional well-being.
- Brain Boosters: Use the graphic below to plan activities that activate your brain’s “happiness chemicals” to help boost mood, motivation, and more!
8. Be Patient and Supportive
Transitions can be challenging, and it's important to be patient and supportive:
- Empathy: Show empathy and understanding during this period of adjustment.
- Encouragement: Celebrate their efforts and accomplishments, no matter how small.
By implementing these strategies, you can help your child start the school year with confidence and enthusiasm. A supportive and nurturing environment at home can make all the difference in their academic and emotional success.
Written by:
Adam Elder, Director of Counseling and SEL
Shoshannah Hoffman, Communications & Marketing Associate