Heading Back to School

Written By Sarah Anita

School will be back before you know it! Whether your child is headed to preschool or senior year, there are things you can do to ease the transition.

In general, most kids do best when they know what to expect and when to expect it. Help your child by telling them when school starts and what will happen when it starts.

Here are some tips for different age groups:

Preschool

  • Shift bedtime to match your preschool schedule 1-2 weeks before school starts.

  • If your child has never been away from you, try arranging 30-60 minute separation times with a trusted caregiver.

  • Read picture books about going back to school and talk about feelings that may arise.

  • If possible, visit the school together.

  • Practice simple self-help tasks like zipping coats and opening snacks.

Elementary

  • Make visual charts for morning and evening routines.

  • Create a consistent spot at home for school supplies (backpack, etc.)

  • Establish a homework space if your child will bring home work.

  • Role play common friendship scenarios with stuffies or puppets.

Middle School

  • Agree on a plan for work management - paper planner or digital.

  • Practice organizing binders or apps.

  • Talk about when and how to ask teachers for help.

  • Validate feelings that may arise - you may soon find yourself in a whirlwind of middle school emotions

High School

  • Collaborate to set academic and personal goals for the school year.

  • Check in on plans for work management - paper or digital

  • Find opportunities to explore colleges and careers, like job shadows

  • Encourage balanced sleep, exercise, and downtime

  • Introduce a lunch budget or prep routine to encourage independence

The key to keep in mind is balance: how can you proactively support your child while encouraging independence and growth? The answer will look different for every child and every parent, and that’s the beauty of parenting.

Sarah Anita
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Big Feelings & Boundaries