A Back-to-School Guide for Parents

By Kaley Barnhill

Kaley is member of the GLPG marketing team and a contributor to the Current.

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How can I make the first day of school a positive experience for my child?

The first day of school marks a significant milestone in both your child’s and your own life. Whether it’s their very first day of kindergarten or just the beginning of a new grade, preparing well can make this transition smoother. 60% of children experience anxiety about starting school but as a parent, you can help ease their anxieties and ensure a positive experience by addressing their fears, establishing routines, and communicating openly. This back-to-school guide for parents will provide practical, actionable tips to help you and your child face the first day of school with confidence and excitement.

Understanding the Emotional Impact of the First Day of School

One of the most common emotional challenges children face on their first day of school is separation anxiety. This is particularly prevalent in younger children who may have never been apart from their primary caregivers for an extended period. The fear of being left alone in an unfamiliar environment can be overwhelming and lead to tears, clinginess, and distress. Children may experience a range of emotions, including excitement and anxiety, about starting school.

Another significant emotional challenge is the fear of the unknown. Children often worry about what their new school environment will be like, whether they will make friends, and how they will manage the academic demands. This uncertainty can manifest as anxiety, nervousness, or even reluctance to attend school.

Social anxiety is also a common issue. The prospect of meeting new classmates and teachers can be daunting for many children. They may worry about fitting in, being liked, or being able to communicate effectively with others. This can lead to feelings of isolation or self-doubt.

Children may also experience performance anxiety. The pressure to perform well academically or to meet the expectations of teachers and parents can be stressful. This is especially true for older children who may already have a sense of competition or fear of failure. Lastly, some children might struggle with adjusting to new routines and structures. The transition from a more relaxed home environment to the structured setting of a school can be challenging. This adjustment period can cause stress and emotional upheaval as children learn to navigate new schedules, rules, and expectations.

A Back-to-School Guide for Parents

Creating a Back-to-School Routine

Establishing an effective morning routine is key to ensuring a smooth transition back to school. Start by creating a consistent schedule that includes tasks like having breakfast, brushing teeth, getting dressed, and using the bathroom. Practice this routine with your child at least a week before school starts. This helps set expectations and reduces morning chaos.

Goodbye Routine

A goodbye routine can also ease the anxiety of school drop-offs. A consistent and reassuring goodbye can make this important transition feel safer for your child. Here are some tips for a successful goodbye:

• Don’t sneak away: Always say goodbye to your child instead of slipping away unnoticed, as this can create trust issues and additional anxiety.
• Keep it brief: Prolonging the goodbye can increase separation anxiety. A quick hug, a few reassuring words, and then leaving confidently can help.
• Prep the night before: Ensure everything needed for the next day is prepared and ready. This reduces morning stress and allows you to focus on saying goodbye calmly.

By meticulously crafting a back-to-school routine, you’re not only helping your child adjust but also providing a sense of stability and comfort.

Adjusting Your Child’s Sleep Schedule

Don’t forget to integrate a specific bedtime routine into your plan. Children thrive on consistency, so aim for an ideal bedtime each night, ensuring they get enough sleep to be alert and energetic for their big day. Children who get 9-11 hours of sleep perform better academically. Gradually adjusting their sleep schedules can make this transition smoother. Try to create a calming pre-sleep ritual, like reading a book or listening to soft music, to help them wind down.

Start by shifting bedtime earlier gradually, ideally moving it back in 5-minute increments every three days. This slow adjustment will help your child adapt without feeling overwhelmed. Begin this process at least a week before school starts, if not earlier, to ensure they’re fully adjusted by the first day.

Another important element is to wake your child earlier gradually as well. Set an alarm for a slightly earlier time each day, mirroring the method used for shifting bedtime. This complete routine adjustment helps to avoid those groggy, rushed mornings when school starts.

Practicing this established routine, including what time to wake up, how to get dressed, and having breakfast, can make those first school mornings go much smoother. A well-rested child is usually a happier and more focused child!

What are some activities to help children feel excited about starting school?

Instilling excitement about school can transform first-day jitters into eager anticipation. Here are some actionable tips to help you create a positive and engaging experience:

• Shopping for School Supplies: Inviting your child to choose their school supplies can make them feel more involved and excited. Whether it’s a cool backpack, colorful notebooks, or fun pencils, letting them have a say boosts their enthusiasm.
• Reading Books About School: Look for children’s books that share stories about the first day of school. Reading these together allows you to discuss the characters’ feelings and experiences, providing comfort and excitement.
• Meeting Future Classmates: If possible, arrange playdates or meet-ups with children who will be in the same class. Familiar faces can make your child feel more comfortable and less anxious.
• Creating a Countdown Calendar: Building anticipation with a countdown calendar can make the wait fun. Each day can be a chance to talk about something they’re looking forward to at school.
• School Tour: Visiting the classroom and school grounds ahead of time (if age-appropriate) can make the new environment feel more familiar, reducing anxiety.
• Role-Playing: Engage in role-playing activities where you and your child take turns being the student and the teacher. This can demystify the classroom experience and make it less intimidating.

By incorporating these activities, you can turn anxiety into excitement, ensuring your child looks forward to embarking on their new adventure.

Celebrating the First Day of School Milestone

The first day of school is a significant milestone that deserves to be celebrated. A joyful and relaxed atmosphere can alleviate any anxiety your child might feel. Consider starting a fun family tradition to mark the occasion—it could be something simple like taking a special photo by the front door or a small celebration after school. These rituals can create positive associations with the start of the school year.

Another way to celebrate this milestone is by preparing a special breakfast. A nutritious and delicious meal can set a positive tone for the day. It’s also a great opportunity to discuss any last-minute thoughts or feelings your child may have. Shared family time in the morning can be incredibly reassuring.

Lastly, consider documenting this day in a memorable way. A keepsake journal where your child can jot down their feelings and experiences of the first day provides a wonderful memory to look back on. Additionally, it opens a dialogue between you and your child to reflect on their growth throughout the school year.

Extra Back-to-School Tips for Older Kids

For older kids, the transition to a new school year comes with its own set of challenges and needs. Here are some tailored tips to help you navigate this important time:

Discuss Expectations and Goals

Older children are often more aware of academic and social expectations. Sit down with your child to discuss their goals for the upcoming school year. This could include academic achievements, participation in extracurricular activities, or social milestones such as making new friends.

Encourage Independence

As your child grows, fostering independence becomes crucial. Allow them to take part in decisions related to their school supplies, clothing, transportation options, and daily routines. This not only builds their confidence but also helps them feel more responsible for their own success.

Address Social Concerns

Adolescence can be a socially challenging time. 50% of children express concerns about making friends at school. Open up a dialogue about any concerns they might have regarding friendships, peer pressure, or bullying. Reassure your child that it’s okay to come to you with their problems, and remind them of the strategies they have for dealing with difficult social situations.

Time Management Skills

Help your child develop good time management skills. Introduce them to tools like planners or digital calendars where they can track homework, projects, and extracurricular activities. Effective time management can significantly reduce stress and improve academic performance.

Self-Care for Parents

Don’t forget about yourself in the midst of preparing your child for school. Take time to practice self-care, whether it’s through exercise, hobbies, or simply taking a few moments for yourself each day. Parents who practice self-care report a 40% reduction in their own stress levels related to their child’s schooling. A well-rested and relaxed parent can provide better support and guidance to their child.

Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

Start by openly communicating with your child about their feelings towards the new school year. Honest discussions help you understand their worries and show them that it’s okay to feel unsure or scared.

Additionally, prepare a few positive affirmations together. Phrases like “I am brave,” “I am ready to learn,” or “I can make new friends” can reinforce a positive mindset. Say these mantras together each morning leading up to the first day of school.

Consider also that every child is unique. Tailor your approach based on your child’s individual personality and needs. For some, a comfort object may provide the security they need. Allow them to take a small, familiar item to school, something that reminds them of home and provides comfort.

Recognizing and Celebrating Your Child’s Achievements

Lastly, remember to celebrate the small victories. Whether it’s making a new friend or successfully navigating a school day without tears, acknowledging these milestones can dramatically build your child’s self-esteem and make them feel proud of their accomplishments.

Therapy for Back-to-School Anxiety

While this back-to-school guide for aprents can be a helpful starting point, if your child is still having a tough time adjusting to school, therapy can be a great way to help them tackle their anxieties. Find My Therapist is a handy tool that helps you connect with a therapist who takes your insurance and fits around your schedule.