Hello September! It’s Time To Start the New School Year

It’s back-to-school season! Getting back into the swing of things after a fun-filled summer can be hard, but an organized approach to heading back to school can make the transition easier for both parents and children. Follow these five tips to make heading back to the classroom a piece of cake.

1. Fill out forms as soon as you get them. The paperwork or online forms that comes along with a new school year can often seem endless. Whether it’s a health form, t-shirt order, permission slip or other document, sign it immediately and return it to school. This will prevent an avalanche of forms from accumulating and you’ll feel accomplished with each signature!
2. Set ground rules. With the lazy days of summer over, it’s time for a rule re-boot in September. Consider how much screen time your children should have each day, homework expectations and an ideal bedtime. Include older children in the conversation to set the rules; they’ll be more likely to buy-in and follow them.
3. Make a meal plan. The rush of after-school programs, fall sports and homework can make mealtimes hard when kids first head back to school. Plan your meals and purchase ingredients in advance so there is no guesswork when it comes to cooking. And meal plans aren’t just for dinner—you can also plan breakfasts and lunches too.
4. Check in on your child’s mental health. After a carefree summer, children may struggle with their mental health when they go back to school. Communicate with them regularly and take note of signs that indicate they may be having a hard time, like acting out or not sleeping well. If problems persist, talk to your school’s counselor or pediatrician.
5. Know your school’s COVID protocols. COVID-19 is very much still with us and will likely impact the school year. Read through your school’s plan for dealing with COVID cases. Know what symptoms require a child to stay home and plan for childcare should your child need to quarantine.