A new school year is starting again, and it can be both an exciting and stressful time for the family. Parents need to take the lead in setting a positive tone so their kids can manage better.
However, with some forethought, parents can help reduce the stress and anxiety of the children's first few school days.
Take note of these blunders to avoid:
1. Not adjusting and preparing the kids for an early bedtime.
The transition from summer to school season will get easier if the parents adjust the children's sleep schedule at least two weeks before the start of classes. The last thing the children have to deal with during the first day of school is to wake up groggy because they were up until midnight. Some nagging will likely be involved in this situation, making mornings quite stressful for the whole family.
Cleveland Clinic sleep specialist Dr. Brian Chen recommended via WKYC to move up the children's sleep schedule by 30 minutes for two to three days until they can wake up an hour earlier. They need to shut down their electronics and hold off on the sugary drinks at least an hour before bedtime, so their body is conditioned for sleeping time.
2. Not preparing at all.
A new school season means new supplies and clothes, so parents need to plan out their shopping schedule, especially if they have more than one child who will need grade-specific school requirements. Some parents may also buy stuff because they look cute and trendy, but these can be more decorative than useful.
Stock up on the essentials to avoid last-minute trips to the store. Create a supply zone in the house so that the kids have papers and pens accessible.
Keep the receipts in case you need to return items your kids will not need or replace them with the ones they have to use.
3. Not letting kids attend the first day of class.
Day one of the school year is usually just a way for the children to be re-acquainted with each other and the school. Thus, some parents may decide to let their kids skip this because they will not be doing academic activities.
However, the first few days are crucial for the children to set expectations, understand classroom rules, and even make new friends. Missing these activities will make it harder for some students to transition, especially if they are the new kids in school.
As much as possible, the parents should meet with the teacher before the first day, even via email, to discuss what else they need to prepare. It might also be necessary to talk about the extra challenges kids and teachers face this year regarding health and safety concerns, per U.S. News.
4. Not planning for after-school care.
Working families may need after-school care for their kids if their classes end in the middle of the afternoon. Don't wait until the last minute to find a service or an activity to keep the child occupied until their parents are home from work.
After-school activities need not be overstimulating and demanding for the kids. They don't need to be in every extra-curricular class. According to CHOC.Org, sometimes a few hours of unstructured play will be more valuable to their development. It will also give the kids a chance to pursue what they really like to do.
Related Article: CDC Releases New COVID-19 Guidelines Ending Quarantines, Social Distancing, Remote Learning and Testing in Schools
