Say goodbye to summer and get your kids feeling good about going back to school

It’s back to school time for many, leaving families struggling to start their weekly routines of packing lunches, helping with homework and getting the kids to bed on time. The first day back to school can always be a little nerve-wracking so making sure you are prepared will make the transition easier for your child. Here are a few trouble-free tips to help you with the transition from summer to school:

• Be prepared – The first day of school can be overwhelming for any child, so try to make this time a little easier and get them involved in making decisions. Ask what they would like for lunch; have them help you prepare it.  Pack their backpacks the night before, and help them collect the basic school supplies they may need. Make sure they have a say in what they would like to wear, it should be something comfortable and something that makes them feel good.
• Create a schedule - Getting back into a simple family routine can really help to organize your life, not only for you but your child as well. The first step is developing a schedule for everyone to follow. Map out priorities, for instance, when homework should be completed, when it’s time for dinner and play time, helping with housework and bedtime. Post the schedule somewhere visible like the refrigerator, where everyone can see it. Tell your children to check it daily and make sure they know they’re responsible for what’s listed on the to-do list. Try sticking to the schedule as best as you can, at least until it becomes second nature. It’s an effortless way to manage time and energy for you, and creates structure for your child.
• Focus on the importance of learning - Talk to your child and get them excited about going to school. Focus on the importance of school and learning. Let them know that all you expect from them is trying their best and being themselves.
• Remember students everywhere - Take the time to talk to your child about how fortunate they are to be going to school. Explain that many children around world don’t have the opportunity to go to school and in some cases, it’s simply because they don’t have the necessary resources. By logging onto the World Vision Gift Catalogue (Worldvision.ca/gifts), you can purchase a gift such as supplying nutritious lunches, providing school supplies or even help build a school.  Having your child give the gift to another child might make going back to school a memorable experience.
• Get them involved - there are many extracurricular activities for children to join.  Whether they are looking to make new friends, enrolling your child in an after school program like a sports team, the school band, or joining a social activity club is always a good way for children to develop their social skills and feel more involved.