Small Steps Toward Big Success: Preparing for Back to School

As summer winds down, parents and children everywhere are starting to feel excitement and anxiety. A new school year is a fresh start filled with opportunities, but students are also faced with busy schedules and stressors as they deal with classes, homework, tests, sports, clubs, after-school events, and social/emotional drama. But how can you ensure your child makes the most of it?  

Start Strong 

For some children and adolescents, going back to school is not met with excitement. Start by emphasizing the positive and exciting things this new school year can bring such as: 

• Seeing old friends and meeting new ones 
• Meeting new teachers and seeing old ones 
• New classroom, subjects, and activities 
• New school supplies 
• Joining clubs, sports, etc. 

Establish a Routine

Every house needs a solid foundation. That’s what a routine does for your child’s school year. A consistent daily schedule helps your child know what to expect each day. Wake-up times, meal hours, homework, and bedtime should all have a rhythm. This stability promotes better behavior and helps them understand the importance of time management. Remember to incorporate short, scheduled breaks to help improve focus and retention of information.  

Finally, establish a reasonable bedtime routine and work towards it in the week before school starts. Being well-rested is strongly connected to learning and retaining information. 

Children need different amounts of sleep depending on their age: 

• Preschoolers (3-5 years): 10-13 hours per night 
• School-age children (6-13 years): 9-11 hours per night 
• Teenagers (14-17 years): 8-10 hours per night 

Create a Productive Homework Space: The Learning Fortress 

Every superhero needs a secret hideout, and your child needs a dedicated space for homework. A quiet, clutter-free area stocked with necessary supplies can make all the difference. Personalize this space with motivational quotes or their favorite colors to make it inviting. A comfortable chair and good lighting can also help them focus better.  

This dedicated space is only valuable if it is used to its full potential. Support your child with creating a homework schedule, prioritizing tasks based on due dates and difficulty level, and tackling the more challenging assignments first. Consistency is key. Following the schedule while still being flexible and accommodating unexpected changes or events is important.  

Manage Screen Time 

Many children spend much more time in front of screens than recommended. Managing screen time can be challenging but not impossible. To help establish boundaries, set clear and consistent rules, and designate specific times for device use. Also, using features such as screen time reports on devices can help provide insights and help maintain these limits effectively. 

Encourage Healthy Habits: Fueling the Brain Engine 

Kids are like cars; they need the right fuel to run well. Nutrient-rich snacks and meals boost their concentration and stamina. Encourage them to snack on fruits, veggies, and whole grains. A healthy breakfast isn’t just important; it’s essential. It’s the fuel that launches them into a productive day. Pairing good nutrition with physical activity will help their brains rev up for learning. 

Stay Engaged: The Power of Communication 

Keeping the lines of communication open is vital. Ask questions every day about their favorite class, who they played with at recess, or what challenges they faced. This simple practice strengthens your relationship and shows your child that their school life matters to you. When kids feel supported, they're more confident and willing to tackle their studies head-on.  

Discuss changes in friendships and the importance of treating others with kindness and respect in all situations. Promote an open dialogue with your child where they can openly express their feelings to help them better face their challenges. Take a proactive approach in discussing and identifying possible situations/obstacles that may arise and planning solutions to help empower them to approach these head-on to feel more in control and prepared.  

Set Realistic Goals: The Roadmap to Achievement 

Goals give direction, just like a map on a road trip. Help your child set achievable academic, personal, and behavioral goals. Whether reading a certain number of books this semester, improving in a specific subject or social skill, or participating in clubs, having a target can inspire them. Celebrate small victories along the way—these mini-celebrations can boost their motivation and self-esteem. 

Foster Independence: Nurturing Self-Reliance 

Just like a bird learns to fly, children need to practice independence. Encouraging them to take responsibility for their schoolwork and chores can foster self-reliance. Rather than stepping in immediately when they struggle, allow them to tackle problems on their own. It’s like letting them ride a bike without training wheels; they might wobble at first, but soon they'll be cruising down the path of life confidently! 

Embrace Mistakes: The Learning Experience 

Mistakes happen. They’re part of the journey! Instead of fearing failure, encourage them to view challenges as opportunities to grow. Every mistake is a lesson in disguise. Understanding this will make them more resilient and willing to take on new tasks. 

Stay Informed: Keep an Eye on Progress 

Regular check-ins on your child’s academic performance can be invaluable. Attend parent-teacher meetings and stay updated on their grades and participation. Monitoring progress is like having a compass to navigate the school year. It allows you to identify areas needing support and celebrate achievements, creating a strong partnership with teachers and your child. 

A Bright Future Begins Now 

Returning to school is a pivotal moment filled with potential. Establishing routines, creating supportive environments, and fostering independence equips your child with the tools they need for success. Just like planting a seed, with care and nurturing, they’ll blossom into confident learners ready to take on the world. Let’s make this school year unforgettable! 

Julie Doyle is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor practicing at Foundation Counseling and Wellness.