FREE Tips: Helping Kids Through the First Weeks of School
The transition between summer and school can be a rude awakening for the first couple of weeks, especially the early start to the day. Not sure about y'all, but our drop-off is 7:30 am. 😅 Why on earth must it be so early? I digress.
The first few weeks of school can be a whirlwind of emotions 🌪️—new routines, new teachers, unfamiliar faces—and the transition from summer freedom to structured days can be challenging.
Here are some tips to help your kids ease into the school year smoothly and for you to support them through this transition.
🌞 Early Bird Gets the Worm
A week or so before school starts, begin adjusting your child's bedtime and wake-up time to match the school schedule. I have found this to be extremely helpful, and we have already started this transition at home. This gradual shift helps their bodies get used to the new routine, making the first few days less of a shock to their system—and yours!
Tip: Share some memories of you going back to school. We have been there! 📚
🍎 Avoid the Hangry Monster!
Do you remember coming home and being starving after school? Let’s get ahead and have a snack ready for them as soon as they walk in the door so they can refuel and unwind. Choose something healthy(ish) but satisfying to give them the energy they need to tackle homework or after-school activities.
Tip: Have them relax, make a snack for them, and avoid having them rummage through the pantry and fridge or asking what they want. 🥪
🗓️ Overbooked and Overwhelmed
The first week of school is full of new experiences, adjustments, and most likely, exhausted kiddos. Try to keep your schedule light and free from too many extracurricular activities or social events. Give yourself and your child time to adjust the first week or two!
Tip: Start bedtime a little early, read an extra book, cuddle a little longer, and overly fill their cup. This will help them relax and give you more time together. 💤
🙊 No Questions or Quizzing!
Instead of immediately asking, "How was your day?" when your child comes home, greet them with a warm hug 🤗 and tell them you missed them. Let them shake off the day and eat a snack first. Once they've had some time to relax, they'll likely open up on their own.
Tip: Starting bedtime early gives you time to connect and talk about the day and set goals for tomorrow. 🌙
💖 Emotions Will Be High!
Preplan that your kids' first week of school will be emotional. They will experience a mix of excitement, nervousness, frustration, and sadness as they adjust to new routines and expectations. From a friend not being in their class to not getting the teacher they hoped for. Be patient and understanding, offering extra support and reassurance as they navigate these emotions.
Tip: Our Convo Cards and Feelings Journal can help kids open up and talk about feelings on their terms! 📝
🌟 Tips for You!!
Remember, your child isn’t the only one adjusting. You might feel the strain of the new routine, too. Here are some ways to manage:
- Stay Organized: 🗂️
- Practice Patience: 🙏
- Communicate: 💬
- Self-Care: ❤️
Tip: I always celebrate the first day of school with a yummy lunch or by getting my nails done. Do something for yourself, and remember—you are crushing it! 🎉
Have a great start to the new school year! 📅