How to get everyone ready to go back to school
Published on Tue Jan 15 2019 in Family
Summer is winding down, and another school year is about to begin. This time of year can be challenging for New Zealand families. New schedules and routines are about to start, meaning changes for both parents and kids. But, there are ways to help the back-to-school season go a little smoother.
Getting back into the swing of things
One of the biggest challenges heading into the new school year is going from a carefree summer routine to scheduled weekdays. That means no more late nights, no more morning lie-ins, and less freedom to come and go as we please. It can be tough for kids (and parents!) to adjust to this sudden change of pace.
One way to help everyone get back into the swing of things is to start the transition to school hours at least a week before the first day of classes. Start enforcing the kids’ regular bedtimes to help reset their internal clocks and create good sleep habits.
Start the morning when you’d normally need to get up during the school year, too. This will hopefully make getting the kids out of bed less of a battle. Cap off the morning with a nutritious breakfast to help everyone start the day right!
Plan for new challenges
The school year often means giving the kids more responsibility. Whether that’s catching the bus alone for the first time or getting their first set of house keys, new challenges can sometimes be scary for children.
Talk to your kids well before the first day of school to learn if they’re feeling anxious or afraid about anything. Both littlies and teenagers worry about starting a new school, taking on more challenging courses or making friends. Sometimes, just talking through these worries is enough to ease their mind or come up with strategies to cope.
For some new challenges, there are more concrete actions you can help with. Practice the route to and from school if your child will be walking, biking or riding public transport there for the first time. Create a “plan B” for things like missing the bus, losing their house keys or if they feel unsafe on their way to school.
Start good habits early
Family life often gets busy once the school year starts. Once that daily school routine is set, it can be tough to break any bad habits that got started early on. During the first few weeks, work together as a family to start good habits to last the entire term and beyond.
A healthy after school snack can help boost kids’ energy for sport practice and brain power for homework. Get them in the habit of reaching for whole fruits or vegetables, rather than sugary or salty snacks.
Creating a designated homework area may also be a good idea. This space should have good lighting and be stocked with any supplies kids might need—things like paper, pens, pencils, a calculator and ruler. It should also be as distraction-free as possible, away from the television, pets and the normal household hustle and bustle.
Finally, a good bedtime routine could help your child get off on the right foot each morning. Consider a “no screens” rule starting at least one hour before bed for everyone in the house—even you! Wind down before hitting the hay by taking a hot bath, reading a book or quietly listening to music.
Here’s to another school year!
Going back to school can be exciting for parents and kids. It can also be a challenge. Getting the entire family ready for this change in routine can be tough, but a little prep work could make it a bit easier. Healthy habits now could help boost your child’s learning all year long!
Still crossing classroom supplies off your back-to-school shopping list? These tips might help you save!
About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.
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