As the last days of summer wind down, lazy days at the pool make way for thoughts of back-to-school time. Preparing your child for school involves more than stocking up on school supplies. The transition to the more structured setting of school is challenging for many children. Simple strategies at home help your child get into the school mentality, whether it is her first year of school or she has several years under her belt.
Step 1
Adjust your summer routine to better match the school year routine. Move bedtime and wake up time. Practice your morning routine with your child getting up, eating breakfast, getting himself dressed and gathering his backpack. Include all of the steps he will need to take on a regular school day.
Step 2
Visit your child's school and classroom particularly if she is attending a new school. Contact the school if there isn't an open house or visitation scheduled before the beginning of the school year.
Step 3
Introduce your child to his teacher if possible. Contact the teacher to see if she is willing to meet with you briefly. This can help ease your child's nerves about starting school.
Step 4
Review safety topics related to the method of transportation your child will take to school. Remind walkers to take the route you have established and to watch out for traffic. Discuss bus safety, such as staying back until the doors open and staying seated until the bus comes to a complete stop.
Step 5
Shop for school supplies together to get your child involved. Allow him to pick out some of the supplies and back-to-school clothes to increase his excitement. Help him pack the school supplies into his bag in anticipation for the first day.
Step 6
Select the first week's worth of clothing a few days before school starts. Help your child lay out the clothes to help save time in the morning.
Step 7
Set up a homework area in the home. If you already have a homework area, organize it and make sure all of the supplies are replenished.
Step 8
Discuss the first day of school with your child. Address any concerns she might have about going back to school and the types of activities she will likely do.
