It's that time of year again! If your kids haven't already gone back to school, then they won't be far behind. But making the transition from summer to fall isn't always easy. There are a lot of changes that must be managed. Here are five back-to-school tips to help you and your kids make the shift as easy as possible.
1. Bedtime
Gradually start getting the children to bed earlier and earlier, so that one week before school starts, they are on their fall schedule. Once school begins, bedtime should be at the same time every night. Weekend times for bed, of course, can still vary a little from the rest of the week.
2. Homework
If you have youngsters who handle homework on their own (yes, there are children like this), leave them alone or say something like: "You really did a good job last year doing your schoolwork by yourself." With other children, sit them down and discuss how their homework will be handled every day. Good rules of thumb include "same time, same place," and "try to get it all done before dinner." TV is not allowed while doing schoolwork, but many kids do better while listening to music.
3. New Schools
If you have a child who is going to a new school, make sure you take them over for a visit. Tour their new classroom and, if possible, meet their new teacher. Even if you can't, try to find at least one friendly person in the school that your child can talk to for even a little bit. Your visit—and that friendly memory—will help to counter some of your child's fears of the unknown.
4. School Supplies
Make a fun shopping trip out of buying school supplies. One–on–one shared fun is the best parent–child bonding method in history. That means ONE child plus you go shopping and to lunch, not THREE kids plus you. Kids cherish being alone with a parent, and for you the pleasure of these moments is partly due to the fact that sibling rivalry is impossible.
5. Listen and Talk
While you're out getting things for school, or anytime really, be a sympathetic listener. Ask your child how it feels to be going back to school, both what's good about it and what's challenging about it. Then, from time to time, tell your youngsters what it felt like for you to be going back to school at about their age. Don't be scared—be honest!