Back to School
Preparing both the adults and children in your family...
August is upon us and it’s time to enjoy those last summer adventures as we slowly prepare our students for regular sleep habits and for school in general.
The first day of school is always a special one. It’s a day filled with excitement, anticipation, and nervousness. It’s a day when friends reunite and new friendships are forged. We are thrilled to welcome back familiar faces and welcome new ones to our MCOL family!
Separation anxiety is an important topic to consider for both parents and children.
Ideas for minimizing this struggle are:
· Orientation (familiarizing them with the environment can reduce anxiety)
o Family meetings before school
o Ice Cream Social
o Play date with a classmate
o Water flowers in front of our school to start the routine of morning arrival
· Establish routines
o Practice consistent morning and evening routines about 2 weeks before school starts (e.g. laying out clothes and backpacks the night before, packing lunches).
o Gradually shift your child’s bedtime and wake-up time to align with school hours.
o Consistency is key. The article below suggests explaining when you do alter your routines.
· Foster a Positive Attitude
o Highlight the fun (seeing friends and school activities)
o Be sure to have family traditions. My daughters always knew we went to Baskin & Robbins to celebrate the first and last day of school.
Here’s two articles to share more ideas (with research to support them):
8 Essential Back-to-School Tips For Families: Expert Advice From A Pediatrician | Franciscan Health
https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/8-back-to-school-tips
Day and Night: The Back to School Routine
https://www.parents.com/day-and-night-the-back-to-school-routine-7511704