Not to mention a tired cliche, but time does have a tendency to fly, especially when it comes to summer vacations. June and July pass by in the blink of an eye, taking away all those pool days, late sunsets, and popsicles.
Out of nowhere, August is here with a knot in your stomach, reminding you it’s time to break out the backpacks. The overall mood of the house shifts. This is the doing of back-to-school blues.
For parents and children, the idea of summer slipping away can bring anxiety and a general sense of dread. The good news? These sudden emotional shifts can be overcome. Here are some tips you can follow to keep those back-to-school blues at bay and help your child settle into a healthy routine:
Know the Signs
Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to your child’s emotional well-being. Many toddlers find it difficult to express their emotions, so they might not tell you that they’re feeling anxious about resuming school.
As a parent, you have to keep an eye on subtle and not-so-subtle energy shifts. Here are some signs you should watch out for:
- Irritability and mood swings
- Low energy
- Trouble concentrating
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Avoidance of school-related topics or activities
Every child is different, but knowing the normal responses to change in toddlers and teens can help you determine the best course of action.
If you’re noticing some classic back-to-school blues signs, talk about the familiar – not just the new. Say things like:
- Remember how much you liked the reading corner in your classroom?
- You’ll be going to a fun camp like last year. Are you excited for that?
Practice Active Listening
Many times, the best solution is the simplest. Communication is the easiest way to manage back-to-school blues. When your child doesn’t know what to expect in terms of teachers and schedules, they are more likely to be worried and uncertain.
Start incorporating the topic of going back to school in your daily conversations. You can do this at the breakfast table or during dinner time. During the conversations, make space for emotions that may emerge. Your child might be super excited to meet their friends, but feel nervous about homework.
Show your child that you’re really hearing what they have to say through active listening. Use your body language, nod, and ask questions. Avoid thinking about your own response or interjecting, as it can convey a sense of displeasure, preventing your little one from sharing.
Get Supplies Together
A fun way to make going back to school less scary is to prepare with excitement. This will take the stress out of the equation and make it a fun experience. Share the list with your child beforehand and ask for their input. In most cases, you need to get the following items:
- Backpack
- Lunchbox
- Water bottle
- Folders
- Pencils
- Colors
- Crayons
- Glue sticks
- Construction paper
- Ruler
Kids grow up fast. Buy some new uniform shirts and pants so the rest of the school year can pass by like a breeze. You can buy girls uniform polo shirts in different colors for a polished look in the classroom, recess, and beyond.
Pro tip? Shopping for supplies together is an excellent opportunity to help kids learn to inventory their items, make decisions, and become wise shoppers.
Practice the School Routine At Least 2-3 Weeks Before
Transitioning from summer break to school nights can be challenging. Early alarms, packed lunches, and booked calendars – everything returns at once. The best thing you can do is ease into the school routine gradually. Start making the following efforts 1-2 weeks before schools start:
- Move bedtime back a little earlier every day. 10 to 15-minute increments are great.
- Wake the kids a little early every day.
- Reintroduce school morning routines, such as brushing teeth, getting dressed, and having breakfast, by a certain time.
- Adjust one part of the day at a time. It could be bedtime this week and early wakeups next week.
A healthy sleep routine will keep your little one energized throughout the school day.
Limit Screen Time
This is a tough one. Many kids get used to excessive screen time over the holidays. This makes transitioning back into the school routine especially difficult.
Gradually limit your child’s screen time over the course of a few days. Fill this time with other engaging activities, such as reading a book, playing outside, making snacks, or doing household chores.
You can also play family board games to help your little one stay busy.
Make a Homework Station
Another beneficial way to beat the back-to-school blues is to make a homework station. Stock their table and organizers with their favorite supplies.
Make sure their homework station has lots of natural light, as it can boost energy levels. A dedicated area for studying will motivate your little one for those busy school days.
