Back to School Tips for Families
Back-to-school season is always busy. Whether you have a family with children at different ages and stages or you're sending your oldest off to college, it’s a transition for everyone. No matter how many times you’ve been through it, these key reminders can help you and your family get into a good place for a successful school year.
Our Five Key Reminders:
Prioritize Good Sleep ☁️
Do you like how you feel after a night of little sleep? Probably not! If you haven't already, start moving bedtime a little earlier to help your children adjust to the schedule they'll have during the school year. Sleep can be one of the toughest transitions, especially when it’s still light outside in the evening. Establishing good sleep habits now, however, can set the stage for a healthier and more successful school year.
Fuel with Balanced Nutrition 🥑
Children who eat a nutritious breakfast tend to function better throughout the day. They often have better concentration and fewer behavioral issues. Take some time to understand your child's school breakfast/lunch situation. Will they need to have a hot breakfast at home, or will they get one at school? Does your child qualify for free or reduced-price lunch? Will you need to pack their lunch, or will they have the option to purchase one?
If time allows, consider creating a meal plan with your family. This can give your children some agency over what they eat while also creating a fun opportunity to spend time together and bond.
Reinforce Routines ⭐️
Even at a young age, children benefit from establishing consistent routines that support their overall well-being. Research shows that children who follow consistent routines generally do better because predictability can make transitions easier.
Take steps to create a designated area for schoolwork and encourage an environment that supports learning and growth. Some downtime is important, too. It can also be helpful to use a chore chart and have the daily routine written down where everyone can see it. Also prioritize creating a morning routine that feels calm and manageable. A little preparation the night before can go a long way toward making mornings less stressful for everyone.
Encourage Daily Physical Activity 🏀
Who doesn't love recess as a kid? Physical activity isn't just fun; it can also play an important role in concentration, behavior, and overall mood. With recess and opportunities for movement changing so much in school, it's important to encourage physical activity outside of school.
If you're able and the weather is nice, take a family walk after dinner. It doesn't have to be complicated. Even a little movement each day can provide an opportunity to get outside, reconnect, and decompress together.
Support Mental Health ☺️
Going back to school can be stressful for the entire household, so it's important to incorporate simple ways to check in and support both your family and yourself. Check in with your children each day and ask about how their day went. Try open-ended questions rather than simply asking, "How was school?" Follow up on concerns as they arise, and remind your children that they can come to you when something is bothering them.
And don't forget to check in with yourself, too. If you or your child are struggling, don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted professional for additional support.
A new school year brings new routines, new challenges, and new opportunities. With a little preparation, patience, and connection, you can help your family start the year feeling supported, confident, and ready for what's ahead!
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Give us a call at 860-404-6330. We see you, and we're here to help!
