The start of school is always a busy time! Help your kiddos adjust to the end of summer and transition back to school and a full schedule with the following tips:

Making the First Day Easier:

• Many children become nervous about new situations. It can be helpful to practice the new situation.  Take them to visit the new school or classroom before the first day of school. Remind them that there are probably a lot of other students who feel the same way. Ask them what they are worried about and help them problem solve ways to master their new environment.
• Point out the positive aspects of starting school to create positive anticipation, like they will see old friends and meet new ones. Remind them about positive experiences they have had in the past with school or their friends.

Developing Routines:

• Consider starting on their school sleep/wake schedule a week or so ahead of the start of school so that the time change is not a factor on their first few days.
• Insufficient sleep is associated with lower academic achievement in middle school, high school and college, as well as higher rates of absenteeism and tardiness. The optimal amount of sleep for most younger children is 10-12 hours per night and for adolescents, 13 years and up, is in the range of 8-10 hours per night.
• Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework starting at a young age. Children need a consistent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that is quiet, without distractions, and promotes study.
• Studies show that children who eat a nutritious breakfast function better. They do better in school and have better concentration and more energy. Some schools provide breakfast for children; if yours does not, make sure they eat a breakfast that contains some protein

Going back to school can also mean going back to the doctor for your child’s annual well visit.  Sunset’s Physicians recommend your child is seen annually for this important checkup. Call us today to schedule!

Here are more resources for the back to school transition:

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/school/Pages/Back-to-School-Tips.aspx

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/school/Pages/Making-the-First-Day-of-School-Easier.aspx

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/school/Pages/Back-to-School-Back-to-the-Doctor.aspx

https://readingpartners.org/blog/back-to-school-reading-tips/

This blog is not a substitute for medical advice. Be sure to talk to your child’s medical provider with any questions.