One of my favorite things about education is the opportunity to get a fresh start each August. What other occupation allows a total reset every year? It is exhilarating and honestly a little scary, too! Your kids probably feel this excitement and fear as well.
Over the years I’ve discovered a few simple practices to help ease into the new school year. I think these can apply to all kids from preschool to high school students (although it will look different for each age group).
- Start easing into the school year routine earlier than the first day of school. A bit of preplanning and allowing bodies to adjust to starting the day earlier will go a long way toward a positive start for all.
- Spend time talking with your child about their expectations and fears. Allowing them to put those thoughts into words can help prepare them for what is to come and face any fears they may have, and it allows you to see how you might be able to help or encourage them.
- Be intentional about planning a few social opportunities for your child with other students before the first day of school. All students feel a bit of social anxiety before the year begins, no matter how long they have attended FRCS. A planned time of reconnection can help alleviate that nervousness.
- Plan an “end of the summer” family event. If you don’t already have a tradition in place, create one. This can be as simple as a backyard BBQ with ice cream or as elaborate as a weekend getaway. The point is, celebrate together!
Taking some time now to intentionally plan ways to support your child in this transitional time will go a long way toward fostering a positive start to this new school year and strengthening your family bond. Enjoy, and I will see you at our First Day Flapjacks celebration!
