HUD Articles
6 Back To School Tips for Parents
August 16, 2018
Here are 6 back to school tips for parents and kids.
1. Practice self-sufficiency
Worried about a younger child? The best remedy is to teach your child how to be self-sufficient. Kids need to figure out how to do things for themselves.
Begin by taking a step back. Start practicing simple tasks prior to returning to school. The more independent your child can be, the smoother they will run. Some examples include:
Using the restroom by themselves
Teaching them how to open their lunch bags and compartments
Putting on shoes
Getting dressed
Brushing teeth
Doing simple chores like putting clothes in the hamper
The more self-sufficient your child is, the more confident they will feel.
2. Implement your school routine two weeks before school starts
Summer routines are generally different. Fire up the alarm clock and get the schedule started.
For instance:
Have your child dress themselves each morning.
Eat a good breakfast
Brush Teeth
Anything to get them back into a set routine
3. Do “homework” and read with your child
Start doing worksheets
Read daily
4. Don’t use school as a reason to meet milestones
For instance, has your preschooler been regressing with potty training? Don’t put pressure on her to be potty trained by saying, “Preschool starts in September! You need to be able to use the potty by then.” This creates anxiety and puts unneeded pressure on your child.
5. Ask them how they feel about "going back"
A big change like going to school includes plenty of emotions.
Your child may feel anxious about his new classmates or teacher. validate them by sympathizing and assuring them that everything wil be ok.
6. Give school gear a test run
Clothes: Once you’ve bought your child’s school clothes, have her try them on and wear them at home. Make sure she can unzip, button, and feel comfortable in them.
Shoes: Have your child wear her school shoes a few days before school starts. You want to make sure they’re comfortable and that she can figure out any velcros or shoelaces.
School bag: Make sure they can work the zippers and latches and they know where each compartment is located and its function
Water bottle or sippy cups: If your child is transitioning from sippy cup to a sports bottle, have them try it out. Remind them to close the spout or else the water will leak. And if your preschooler will be using a new sippy cup, make sure she knows how to drink from that as well.
Going back to school is a huge transition for everyone. These back to school tips can mark it a littler easier for all. Test drive your gear and adjust your schedule two weeks before. Encourage your child to be self-sufficient. And discuss the school transition by validating their emotions. Summer break may be over, just the fun doesn't have to stop!!