Getting a new school year off to a good start can influence children’s attitude, confidence, and performance both socially and academically. Even children who are eager to return to school must adjust to greater levels of activity, structure, and for some, the pressures associated with school life.
The degree of adjustment depends on the child, but parents can help their children manage the increased pace of life by planning ahead, being realistic, and maintaining a positive attitude. Here are a few suggestions to help ease the transition and promote a successful school experience.
- Be sure your child is in good physical and mental health. Make sure that you schedule doctor and dental check-ups early. Discuss any concerns you have over your child’s emotional or psychological development with your pediatrician. Your doctor can help determine if your concerns are normal, age-appropriate issues or require further assessment.
- Review all of the information. Review the material sent by the school as soon as it arrives. These packets include important information about your child’s teacher, room number, school supply requirements, sign ups for after-school sports and activities and school calendar dates.
- Mark your calendar. Make a note of important dates, especially back-to-school nights. This is especially important if you have children in more than one school and need to juggle obligations. Arrange for a babysitter now, if necessary.
- Buy school supplies early. Try to get the supplies as early as possible and fill the backpacks a week or two before school starts. Some teachers require specific supplies, so save receipts for items that you may need to return later.
- Re-establish bedtime and mealtime routines at least 1 week before school starts. Prepare your child for this change by talking to your child about the benefits of school routines in terms of not becoming over tired or overwhelmed by school work and activities. Include pre-bedtime reading and household chores if these were suspended during the holiday.
- Turn off the TV. Encourage your child to play quiet games, do puzzles, flash cards, colour, or read as early morning activities instead of watching television. This will help ease your child into the learning process and school routine.
- Freeze a few easy dinners. It will be much easier on you if you have dinner prepared so that meal preparation will not add to household tensions during the first week of school.
Review your insurance policies. Talk to your broker to ensure that you and your family are covered before you start another busy year. Making any necessary changes to your policy now will be worth it in the long run. Visit www.indwerisk.co.za or call 0860 13 13 14.