Back to School-Ease the Transition
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August is here, which means students will return to school this month. Back-to-school plans benefit both students and parents.
It is common to focus on school enrollment, finding the backpack, getting school supplies, scheduling a haircut, and shopping for new clothes when preparing for back to school. As summer vacation comes to an end, get children back into their routines ahead of time to ease the transition into school.
Routines, Routines, Routines
Despite protests, routines benefit kids. They reduce anxiety, ease time management, and increase independence.
Create a routine that works for your family and give yourself plenty of time to get into it, both at night and in the morning. Plan these routines a week or so in advance, so there is time to adjust without the pressure of school starting the next day.
Set a consistent bedtime and wake up time.
Back to school also means returning to a regular bedtime. Push bedtime back by 10-15 minutes each night until a child reaches their ideal bedtime. As well, the same rule should be followed in the morning.
With these gradual changes in sleep habits and a regular bedtime routine, transitioning from summer to school should be easier.
Sleep: how much is enough?
- Preschool children need 11-13 hours
- Elementary age children need 10-12 hours
- Middle School and pre-teens should get 9-11 hours
- Teenagers should get 8.5-9 hours
Start morning prep at night.
Get ready for the morning as much as possible. Instead of waiting until morning, let your children select their clothes, pack backpacks, check homework, sign permission slips, etc., the night before. Preparing a child's lunch at night is also a good idea; be sure to observe food safety practices.
Give kids time to get ready in the morning.
Get children up early enough so they can get ready without rushing. Ample time in the morning allows them to get ready at their own pace. For some children, making a checklist for the morning routine may be helpful. When children sleep late, they wake up rushed and stressed. Often, rushing and stress result in yelling, crying, and frustration.
Avoid morning screen time to streamline your morning routine. It is easy for a child to lose track of time while watching TV or using a tablet. Children who watch a screen while eating breakfast often skip or eat slowly. It can be stressful for some children if their show isn't over when they're supposed to be leaving for school. Music can be a good alternative to screen time. An upbeat wake-up song can get the whole family going.
Help children succeed academically by easing them into back-to-school routines today. Wishing you a great start to the new school year!
Also listen to the August 2024 Episode: How to Avoid Overspending on Back-to-School Shopping, K-State Research and Extension Sound Living Podcast @ https://soundlivingksu.libsyn.com.
August 2024 Episode: How to Avoid Overspending on Back-to-School Shopping
Joy Miller, Extension Agent, Family and Community Wellness, August 2024
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Joy Miller
Family and Community Wellness Agent