Moms all over the country are counting the days until “back to
school”, while kids are busy packing in every last minute of fun and
relaxation available. The following are a few tips to ease your family’s
transition to the school day schedule.
• School Supplies – Many schools publish lists of needed supplies early. Save time by
shopping now, while stores are less crowded and prices are low. Buy in
bulk – you will likely need paper, pencils, and pens for many years to
come, so go ahead and stock up now.
• Clothing – Plan to take each child shopping well in advance of the first week of
school. I prefer, when possible, to take each child individually. I’m
fortunate that my children wear uniforms for school, so we don’t have
many disagreements over style. Prior to leaving on your shopping trip,
assess your child’s current clothing. Determine what fits properly, is
still in style and will last through the season. Donate clothing your
child has outgrown to a charitable organization’s thrift store. Then,
make a list of your needs and shop only for items on your list. Prior to
shopping, be sure to check with your school with regards to dress code
regulations and do not purchase items which do not meet the school’s
dress code.
• Hair and grooming –
Most children, especially boys, will need haircuts after the lazy days
of summer. Do yourself a favor and take them now rather than waiting
until the last minute and facing long wait times. Also, now is a good
time to stock up on personal care products for the coming year, to
restock toothbrushes, and to determine the pecking order for shower
schedules.
• Sleep schedule transition – Most families allow a later bed time routine during the less busy
summer months. Children’s sleep schedules become shifted, staying up
later and sleeping in later in the morning. A few weeks prior to the
start of school, begin to have children go to bed earlier and begin
waking them up earlier this morning. I am learning that this is
particularly important with my pre-teen son, who is suddenly requiring
more sleep. If children fight this earlier bed time, allow them to read
in bed to ease the transition.
• Meet your teachers – If possible, drop by your children’s school in the weeks prior to the
first day to meet your child’s teacher. Most of these dedicated
professionals will can be found organizing and decorating classrooms in
anticipation of the start of the new year. If you are fortunate enough
to arrange such a meeting, introduce yourself and your child and offer
your help. Most teachers will welcome this type of volunteer work and
your child will be the beneficiary.
Many additional
details will remain to be taken care of prior to the first day of
school, but time spent in the weeks prior will help to ease the
transition for your entire family. Speak with your child now about his
or her goals for the coming school year. Obtain the school calendar and
work to arrange vacations, doctor’s appointments and other meetings
during off school time. Do your best to face the school year in an
organized fashion and before you know it, you’ll be counting the days until summer!