As the summer vacation draws close, it’s time to start preparing for the back-to-school season. Whether you’re a student or a parent, it’s vital to lay the groundwork for a successful academic year. This involves more than just buying school supplies – it requires careful planning and organization to ensure a smooth transition from the lazy days of summer to the academic rigor of the classroom. Let’s explore some essential steps to help you prep for back-to-school and make the most out of the upcoming semester. From creating a study schedule to organizing your backpack, we’ll cover everything you need to know to start the school year off on the right foot.
Encourage reading:
It is well-known that children who have access to books and are encouraged to read at home tend to experience more success with reading as they begin school. One way to encourage reading is by making it a daily habit and allowing your child to take the lead in choosing books that interest them. Consider visiting your local library, which often has an online portal where you can browse and request books. This will not only help your child build a love for reading but also enhance their learning skills in the process. Additionally, if your child is starting kindergarten at a younger age than their classmates, they might benefit from participating in intensive literacy training before first grade.
Set a routine:
Establishing a consistent routine for your child is essential, including regular bedtimes and morning routines. This will assist them in adjusting to their new school schedule and prevent any morning chaos. For children who have not yet learned to read, consider creating a visual morning and evening routine guide that they can easily understand. Having a well-established routine helps children feel secure and creates a sense of predictability.
Stay involved:
Are you a busy parent trying to keep up with your child’s school schedule? Make sure to grab your calendar and add the dates when you should attend parent-teacher conferences, PTA meetings, board of education meetings, school closings, and early dismissals as soon as these are known. This will help you stay informed about your child’s progress and build relationships with their teachers and classmates.
Healthy lunches:
Keep them focused and energized with healthy options like fruits, veggies, and whole grains. If the school offers a lunch menu, put a calendar reminder, review the menu monthly & create a meal plan to know what and when to send lunch and minimize the decision-making process.
Stay positive:
Keep a positive attitude and encourage your child to do their best. Celebrate their successes and help them learn from their mistakes. Ask open-ended questions to encourage them to open up. Want to know how? Click this link for more.
Plan ahead:
Make a list of everything your child needs, including school supplies, clothes, and important documents. It will help you stay organized and reduce stress. You may also want to email your child’s teacher to introduce yourself as a parent and provide any relevant information. Don’t forget to copy other parents or caregivers involved in your child’s education.
Shop early:
To avoid the crowds and get the best deals on school supplies and clothes, it’s a good idea to start your shopping early. By doing so, you’ll have more time to compare prices and find the items that your child needs without feeling rushed or stressed. Additionally, starting early can help you avoid the last-minute rush that often leads to higher prices and limited availability.
Bottom Line
As a parent, it’s important to start preparing for the back-to-school season early. Encouraging your child to read, setting a routine, staying involved, providing healthy lunches, and staying positive are all essential steps to help your child have a successful academic year. Planning ahead and shopping early can also help reduce stress. However, one challenge parents may face is not knowing how to help their children with school-related activities. It’s crucial for schools to establish a relationship with parents and provide them with resources and techniques to facilitate their child’s education. By staying involved and engaged in your child’s education, you can effectively contribute to their growth and development. Let’s foster an environment of understanding and connection between home and school to ensure our children’s academic success.
Tezeta “Tez” Roro is a real estate broker and a parent. She is an advocate for children and parents and has been recognized for her positive efforts in her community.
