It’s that time of year again – back-to-school. It’s no secret that sending our children back to school can be stressful. But, it doesn’t have to be! Here’s a few tips to help ease you and your child(ren) into the process and avoid the back-to-school stress this year.
CREATE A ROUTINE
Consistency and routine are key. Try to have everything you need to send your child back to school organized and ready 2 weeks before school starts.
- Ease your child(ren) back into their sleep cycles by having them go to bed and wake up at the same time they will when school starts.
- Stay organized. Establish where your children will keep their backpacks. Should they empty it out each night. Decided where and when they will do their homework each day, and where should it go to be checked?
Crosswinds Tip: For children with divorced parents, remind them who is picking them up each day. Try to be as consistent as possible with daily drop-off and pick-up routines.
TALK ABOUT EXPECTATIONS
Discuss back-to-school expectations with your child. What will they be responsible for doing each night and morning? Do they have their own alarm or will you wake them up? Do they need to have their clothes laid out the night before? What does their morning routine look like? Whatever your expectations may be, be sure to set them before school starts.
DISCUSS WORRIES AND FEARS
Going back to school can be both exciting and scary. Focus on validating your child’s emotions while remaining positive. Kids can pick up on if you have anxiety about sending them back to school, so it’s important to stay calm and positive.
Crosswinds Tip: If your child has worries and fears about going back to school – perhaps they are worried about bullying – help them come up with solutions. Ask them what they can do in those situations to help. Helping your child find a solution allows them to feel moe in control of the situation and reduce potential anxiety.
DAILY CHECK-INS
Check in with your child daily. Engaging for at least 15 minutes a day can help you stay connected and attached.
Crosswinds Tip: Asking your child “how was your day” will inevitably get you that token one-word response. Instead ask questions like:
- What was one high and one low point of your day?
- What are you excited about today?