15 Back-To-School Tips For A Healthy, Happy New School Year

1. Get A Headstart On The School Routine

After a long summer holiday with relaxed routines, prepare the kids for school by returning to a school routine at least two weeks before school starts. Get them to sleep and wake up at a standard, age-appropriate time. 

Sleeping is crucial for optimal functioning, concentration, and school learning. 

2. Prepare For A Good Night's Sleep

A consistent bedtime routine and the ideal conditions will help your child to settle and fall asleep much easier. Follow a nighttime routine, i.e., no technology an hour before bedtime - bathtime - reading time - tucking them in - putting on a nightlight - ideal sleeping temperatures - goodnight kisses.

3. Talk About It

Children are often anxious about unfamiliar situations, such as a new school, class, teacher, or grade. Discuss returning to school and letting your child express their fears or concerns. Try to address them or suggest solutions and reassure them that many other kids feel the same and they are not alone. You could even resonate with them by telling your own back-to-school story. 

Focus on all the positive aspects of starting school to get them excited. Do this before school starts and check in regularly when school has begun.

4. Get Into A School Mindset

Start waking up your child's brain by getting into learning mode. Have them complete any summer assignments or set aside time daily for reading and learning exercises. Practice some light literacy, math, problem-solving, creativity, memory, and social skills. 

Doing chores around the house is also a great way to instill a sense of responsibility and accountability and encourage independence. 

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5. Do A Dummy Run

Most schools are open a few days or weeks before the kids start, giving you the perfect opportunity to do a dummy run. Take your child to visit the school and get familiar with the terrain, classroom, and playroom.

They could also meet their teacher, and it gives you a chance to address any concerns. Attend any orientations if your child attends a new school to ease the transition.

6. Stock Up On Supplies (Always a Fun One)

We all know how exciting it is to get something new or write with a glitter pen! Stocking up on school supplies is a fantastic way to get the kids excited for the new school year. Having all the right tools will make a child (and you) feel prepared and in control. 

Get a supply list from the school and involve them in the choosing and buying process to build up excitement. Start before the rush to avoid long lines and last-minute anxiety. 

7. Prepare A Homework Station

Set up a workstation where all school supplies are within reach, and your child can focus on the task without distractions.

Create a message board/ calendar where the whole family can keep track of schedules and appointments. A visual schedule with fun images is excellent for the little ones.

9. Clean Out The Clutter and Organize The Home

An organized home can make life much less chaotic. When everything has its place, navigating and finding things is easier, saving you time and frustration. Go through your kids' wardrobes, throw out or donate old clothes, sort out desks and play areas, etc. 

Have a space where backpacks, hats, raincoats, boots, and sports equipment are stored so they can be quickly grabbed on your way out. Keep a file for vaccination records, report cards, contractual agreements, and important documents.

READ MORE: 50 Home hacks to create a healthy kitchen & living environment

10. Prepare For Smooth Mornings

Get into the habit of making your mornings smoother and less chaotic. Start setting the alarm and see how much time you need to get everything done. Follow a checklist to establish a morning routine and get into the habit. 

Discuss bathroom schedules to avoid fights. Prepare backpacks and lunches the night before. Pick out one or two outfits per weekday to make the choices easier and quicker in the morning. Have healthy breakfast options ready to start the day on the right note!

11. Make A List of Meal Ideas

Kids who eat a healthy, nutritious breakfast and lunch function better and have higher concentration and energy levels. If the school provides meals, check the meal plan to see if you need to add something or pack their own lunch when your child does not or cannot eat it. 

Prepare a weekly meal plan or have meal ideas on hand if you have to provide the meals. This will help you be prepared, save time, and ensure your children get the nutrition they need. Remember water bottles for the kids to stay hydrated!

READ MORE:

The benefits of meal planning and how to get started

14 on-the-go healthy snacks to keep your energy running high

12. Research After-School Activities Or Childcare

After-school activities are a great way to keep your child engaged, social, and active. They might also give you some time to get things done and organized. If you are working, make arrangements for after-school pickup and care, whether with a family member or an after-school program. Make sure they follow your rules and routine to be consistent in schedules and discipline.

13. Arrange A Playdate

Find another child (or more) in the neighborhood who attends the same school or class as your child. Let them meet and get to know each other. They will have someone to ride the bus or walk to school with and sit with during lunches. This way, they will be less anxious and already feel more comfortable.

14. Talk About Safety

Unfortunately, we live in an imperfect world with danger lurking around the corner. Review safety rules like crossing a street, avoiding unfamiliar routes or places, and being cautious when talking to strangers. 

15. Remember To Keep it Fun

For many of us, school was not the most fun part of our day. And this might be the same for your child. As kids, it is difficult to concentrate for long periods; they may not find the work interesting; or even struggle to make friends.

Regularly check in, ask if they are okay, and have an hour a day where you just have fun. It also helps to have an activity-free and no-schoolwork day where you as a family can relax and enjoy each other's company.