As summer winds down, many parents feel a mix of relief and dread. In our household, lazy summer days are the norm. My youngest rises with the sun, while the older two roll out of bed around 8:30 or 9. Breakfast is a free-for-all, often skipped altogether, and lunch? Well, let’s just say I’ve asked more than once, “Did anyone eat lunch today?” as they remained glued to their screens.
We’ve enjoyed our share of library visits, park outings, and family vacations, but most of our summer has been gloriously unstructured. Now, as we gear up for the school year, a hint of anxiety creeps in. The daily chaos of “Put your shoes on! Where’s your homework? For the love of all that is good, eat your breakfast!” is about to commence. While we can never fully prepare for the whirlwind of back-to-school, a few strategies can help ease the transition.
1. Acknowledge Their Kidness
Kids are going to be tired that first week back. They might not melt down until Friday, but it’s best to be prepared. Be patient as they adjust to new routines, friendships, and the demands of a structured school day.
2. Prepare Ahead of Time
Avoid the last-minute scramble the night before school starts. Instead, begin waking them up earlier a week in advance and re-establish a bedtime routine. Remember bedtime reading and brushing teeth? Those habits need a revival, especially after late nights filled with snacks and movies.
3. Encourage Writing
This might sound old-fashioned, but get your kids to write something by hand—like a letter to Grandma. After a summer of swiping screens, their fingers could use the workout. Plus, Grandma will appreciate the effort!
4. Reintroduce Regular Meals
The summer of long, leisurely lunches is over. Gently remind your kids to pick up the pace during mealtime; this will help them adjust back to a school schedule where meals are more structured.
5. Get Back to Hygiene
If your kids have spent summer in the same pajamas for days, it’s time to reinstate regular bathing and getting dressed. A few days before school starts, encourage them to get back in the habit of personal hygiene.
6. Check Their Wardrobe
After months in swimsuits and PJs, it’s easy to forget that kids need clothes that fit. Make sure they have appropriate outfits and shoes to avoid any social faux pas on the playground.
7. Create a Routine
For some kids, having a visual representation of their school routine helps. Consider using a calendar to keep track of assignments and sports. Checklists can alleviate morning chaos, ensuring that everything, from lunch to homework, is ready to go.
8. Maintain Fun Traditions
To soften the harsh transition back to school, keep some summer traditions alive. A Friday movie night can provide a sense of normalcy and fun, allowing for late nights and sleep-ins on Saturdays.
9. Reassure Them About Mistakes
Remind your children that it’s perfectly okay to mess up, especially during the first few weeks of school. Everyone is adjusting, and it’s a learning experience for all.
10. Embrace Survival Mode
This isn’t the best time to experiment with elaborate meals or engage in battles over outfits. If they’re dressed and ready, celebrate that small victory. Quick meals like mac and cheese can keep things manageable during the chaotic first weeks.
Good luck to both the kids and parents as you start this new chapter together! Remember, you’re all in this together.
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Summary
The transition back to school can be challenging for both kids and parents. By preparing in advance, re-establishing routines, and maintaining some summer traditions, families can ease into the new school year with less stress.