As winter break comes to a close and it’s time to send the kids back to school, parents may be feeling a mix of emotions. On one hand, it can be a relief to have a sense of structure and routine return to the household. On the other hand, it can be stressful to get back into the swing of things after a long break. To help ease the transition, here are some tips for parents as they prepare for back to school after winter break.
- Get back on a schedule. It can be easy to let bedtimes and wake-up times slip during the holidays, but it’s important to start getting kids back on a regular schedule a few days before school starts. This will help them adjust to the earlier mornings and avoid feeling groggy and tired on the first day back.
- Prepare the night before. One of the biggest sources of morning stress for parents is trying to get everything done at the last minute. Avoid this by having your child’s backpack, clothes, and lunches ready the night before. This will also make it easier for kids to get dressed and out the door in the morning.
- Set goals and expectations. After a break, it can be easy for kids to lose focus and motivation. Sit down with your child and discuss their goals for the second half of the school year. Encourage them to set both academic and personal goals, and make a plan to help them achieve them.
- Communicate with the teacher. After a break, it can be hard for both kids and teachers to get back into the swing of things. Reach out to your child’s teacher(s) to let them know of any changes or challenges your child may have experienced over the break and ask for any updates on what is expected and coming up in the class.
- Stay organized. With the new semester starting, it’s a good time to clean out backpacks, desks and binders, and to make sure important papers are filed away in a safe place. Help your child stay on top of their assignments and due dates by encouraging them to use a planner or calendar.
- Make time for fun. While it’s important for kids to focus on their studies, it’s also important for them to have fun and enjoy their childhood. Encourage your child to join a club or team, or to take up a hobby. This will not only help them develop new skills, but it will also help them to feel more well-rounded.
The transition back to school after a long break can be tough, but by following these tips, parents can help their kids ease back into the routine and set themselves up for success in the second half of the school year.
