The start of school is an exciting transition, full of so many different feelings that may change from moment to moment. And this is not only true for rising kindergarteners—we also have students who are moving from elementary to middle school, those who are changing schools, and of course, the end of summer and the start of a new school year is a big change for all of us! Times of transition can be exciting, and they can also be scary. They also present a wonderful opportunity to change or tune up your family routines or habits. Here are some thoughts that may help your whole family have a smooth transition back to school this year!
Easing the transition from home to school. We have some time-honored traditions that parents have shared with us over the years that can ease anxieties about school and make goodbyes a little easier. These work best when practiced in advance. A kiss on the palm that can be carried with your child all day long is a sweet reminder that you are always there for them. Special goodbye handshakes, high fives, or other gestures can also be a fun way to part ways.
Or perhaps you have a tween who isn’t into such shows of affection with their parents at this moment, but still need those reminders that you are always there for them. Maybe they’d like to carry with them throughout the day a special friendship bracelet, a pair of earrings or another special item that you made or bought together.
Some parents lend their kids a special ring, stone, or other small item (that won’t be sorely missed if it doesn’t come home from school). This can be placed in a pocket or worn close to their heart.
Some kids do really well with a special ritual that is repeated every day. For example, a special goodbye exchange that can include words you have agreed upon, perhaps combined with any of the previous suggestions. Asking your child what they would like you to say to each other as a goodbye ritual is sure to elicit some surprising and effective phrase choices!
There are endless possibilities for celebrating your connection with your child during your time apart and they can be easily personalized to create something special between the two of you.
Transitions as a time to make improvements. We all have an area of our lives that we think could be going a little smoother. Some common examples are getting more sleep, establishing solid bedtime or homework routines, taking a fresh look at rules for screen time, or getting more exercise. Consider starting with one thing that you think will make things easier for your family as kids get ready to go back to school. Be sure to start small and set up clear and attainable goals. Incentive systems such as star charts can be really motivating and help keep you and your child on track.
Morning and bedtime routines are essential for successful school days. If you’ve got those down, you may want to check out our suggestions for setting up other valuable routines that promote school success and wellbeing: Getting Involved with Homework, Get Moving, Get Happy, and Grow Your Brain, Sleep! And Boost Your Family’s Immune System, Foods that Help You Stay Well, Get Outdoors to Improve Mental Health.
As you enjoy these final moments of summer vacation, consider what will bring more ease and joy to the coming school year. This is a great time to try something new!
