Times of transition aren’t easy, but if you’ve prepared properly, they can be a breeze. Children, especially, have a hard time when boundaries and bedtimes are suddenly more strictly enforced.
There are several ways to adequately prepare your family for the new school year. Embrace the new year and all it has to offer by establishing yourself and your attitude as an example for your children. If you do, going back to school doesn’t have to be a dreadful experience, but something that is fun and exciting for the whole family.
Ready, Set, Go!
Hopefully, you kept some routines in place throughout the summer for an easier time when school arrives. If not, don’t worry. Early rising may be a lot to ask with your children, but gradually establishing an earlier bedtime can make it easier when the time comes. If this is out of the question with the late sunsets, at least have your kids get into bed earlier and make a habit of partaking in quiet and calm activities such as reading or puzzles.
It is best to stick to the same schedules for sleeping and waking. Have your kids, and yourself, get into the habit of preparing meals and outfits for the coming day the night before. This preparedness reduces anxiety and leaves more time for fun activities.
As a parent, you must reinforce established patterns. Going back to school is like riding a bike, once you do it—the muscle memory comes back easily. Kids are used to the school flow once the transitional first weeks are over. It may be the parents that have the harder time. After all, it is more work for the adults with the preparations and schedules. Make sure your kids are ready emotionally for the change. Talk about the excitement of the new year to come. The worst thing you can do is ignore the shift in the schedule.
