Back+to+School+Tips



Back to School Tips 1. Most importantly, get your child to bed on time. Start reducing the time by 10 minutes each night prior to the night before school, so the bedtime will be gradual and less noticeable. If you go "cold turkey", your child will view the reduction as a punishment and associate this "bad feeling" with the beginning of school. Also, start 'winding down" about an hour before bedtime...tv off, computer off, focus on being together...bath, brush teeth, story etc. Once the time is established, stick with it. You can also play soft music or audio books and use a night light. *Lack of sleep promotes "crankiness", stress and a stronger possibility of your child getting hurt (his/her reactions are not as quick on the playground, plus just tripping over his/her own feet in the hallway etc.) 2. Get a good breakfast. Plan the breakfast, so it is ready when your child gets up. Breakfast is very important for staying focused throughout the school hours. 3. Meet your teacher at times he/she may provide for you to come into school. If you are unable to meet at that time, ask for an alternative time...teachers are in and out of their rooms as the "first day" gets closer and closer. Attend any OPEN HOUSES. 4. Be involved as a parent in your child's school events and projects. Attend special events. Volunteer if you can! 5. Write to your teacher before the first day. He or she will write back. This will help to sharpen your child's writing skills, plus it will provide the teacher with a "connection" with your child prior to the first day. 6. Drive your child past the school...often. Do it without even mentioning it. Just driving by often will help the child develop a "secure connection" between the home and school. If you do this often, the pathway between home and school will be "normal" for your child by the time the first day arrives. 7. Read books about the first day of school - see my wikispace page entitled "Back to School Books with Mike Case and WFMJ". I have an array of books for you there. 8. Look for other friends who are in your child's class. This will reduce anxiety. 9. Share your postive experiences with your child about your first day of school. Your child looks up to you...he/she will appreciate that you may have been nervous but found out that school was fun! 10. Go shopping for first day of school clothes and supplies with your child. Let them be a part of the decision making. 11. Dust off or set up the homework station. Let them know that going to school and homework is their job. It's important. Have the space and tools ready for homework. 12. Make the first day a celebration. Have a special dinner or dessert. Have a sign on the door wishing them a HAPPY FIRST DAY! Each year as a student is like getting a new job. They will have new co-workers, a new boss, and new responsibilites. Celebrate their NEW JOB!