Features
Making Back To School—COOL!
Angie Fletcher, Human Development Specialist in Douglas County, University of Missouri Extension
The short summer months will soon begin to wind down and school bus trips will take the place of car trips to the lake. Back to school time is often a time of change for many families. First day of school, new schools, and new teachers, are only a few of the many changes children and families encounter at the beginning of a new school year. Making a smooth transition between the summer break and the beginning of school can help children feel good about themselves and help everyone in the family create and maintain a positive outlook about the coming school year. Parents play an important role in helping make this transition a smooth one. Here are some tips to help make this transition more relaxed and enjoyable for everyone.
Establish a Routine
Bed times, rise and shine times, where do I put my
backpack and important notes when I get home—whatever
your routine/schedule will be, begin following it at
least a week or so before school actually begins. This
will help adjust you and your child to the routine
early.
Take a School Tour
This is especially important if your child is new to
the school system or building. Knowing where to go on
the first day can relieve a lot of stress.
Meet With Your Child’s Teacher(s)
Introduce yourselves. Discuss what will be happening
in the classroom, any special needs or situations your
child may have. Is there any way you can help out in the
classroom?
Make Sure All School Records Are Up To Date
Make sure the school has any new phone numbers,
changes of address, immunization updates, etc. Having
these in an emergency can save precious minutes.
Get All Required Examinations
Try to schedule appointments for sports physicals,
immunizations, dental exams, etc. before school starts.
This will help avoid absences from school.
Be Sure Your Child Knows Their Address and Phone
Number
This is especially necessary if you have just moved!
After School Care
Make necessary arrangements and be sure your child
knows where they are to go and what they are to do after
school. It is also a good idea (especially for
elementary school students) to inform the teacher of
these plans also.
Purchase School Supplies
Check with your child’s teacher or school for a list
of needed supplies.
Create a Homework Center
Stock it with extra crayons and supplies to complete
homework. Make sure it is no television is near and
distractions few.
Stress The Importance Of Good Nutrition
Healthy, well-balanced breakfasts, lunches, snacks and
dinners can unleash the Brainiac in your child! Studies
have shown that good nutrition helps keep children
focused, their energies high, and their moods
balanced—all of which are factors that promote learning.
Last Updated 10/05/2007
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