Say it isn’t so. The summer was a blur and most area schools are back in session or will be soon. But that doesn’t mean the sky is falling. It’s just a new season and means cooler temps and fun milestones are on the way. My girls – Ella and Bea – are rising to grades seventh and fourth, respectively, at Grace Saint Luke’s, and while they definitely have a case of the end-of-summer blues, I think deep down they are ready for some much-needed routines with their peers.
I get it, it’s hard to go from the loosey-goosey summer vibe where sleeping in and staying up late are on the menu to a more regimented bedtime and wake-up call. That’s why it’s important to start going to bed routinely at least two weeks before school actually starts. Kids should also be waking up earlier too, so that first day isn’t hell on wheels. It’s also important to encourage the kiddos to start making their lunches and finding snacks that they like so you aren’t scrambling the night before. The same can be said about clothing. Your kid has grown and it’s time for some new clothes to usher in the new school year. Keep an eye out for tax-free days and back-to-school sales. The deals are out there. You just have to look and be savvy.
Here are some concrete suggestions to help your kids get ready to go back to school:
♦ Soak up the sunshine one more time.
Summer is about playing outside and adventuring. Plan a quick trip or staycation in town to create a few more memories before the bell rings.
♦ Adjust your sleep schedule.
Don’t wait until the day before to try and get your kid to bed earlier. Start two weeks out and start in intervals. A good night of sleep is paramount to tackling the school day.
♦ Read each day.
Encourage your kids to read all summer long and into the dog days of summer. Visit the public library as part of your weekly summertime routine.
♦ Math is important, too.
Don’t sleep on your math facts, y’all. A little a day goes a long way.
♦ Monitor snacks and eating routines.
Remember, children may need to try a new food several times before they start to like it. Don’t give up on that healthy snack if they don’t like it at first. Fruits and veggies presented in a fun and appetizing way seem to work.
♦ Drive by the school.
Swing by the school and re-familiarize yourself with drop-off and pick-up routines.
♦ Check schedules.
Be prepared and know before you go. Your kids should review and familiarize themselves with their schedules. It’ll lessen the anxiety.
♦ Speak positively about school.
Get pumped and remind them that fall break is only a few months away.
Jeff Hulett is a freelance writer, musician, and PR consultant in Memphis. He lives in the Vollintine Evergreen neighborhood with his wife Annie, two girls Ella and Beatrice, and dog Chalupa.