Back-to-School Tips for Parents: Helping Your Child Adjust

By Marta Prieto

Reading time: 0 minute

May 04, 2021

Contents

Introduction

Reset sleep patterns

Focus on the positive aspects

Set academic goals

Identify priorities

Connect with the teacher

Look after the basics

Introduction

School season is around the corner, and kids must switch from laid-back holidays to structured school days. They typically feel uneasy about this change. Parents face the significant task of refocusing their child's mindset on school.

This requires re-establishing routines and habits, effectively "retraining" their brain. This blog provides parents with a roadmap to help their children transition smoothly into school and achieve success this year.

Here are some essential back-to-school tips for parents:

1. Reset Sleep Patterns

Kids stay up late during holidays, disrupting their sleep routine, a crucial factor in school success. To ensure a smooth transition, establish their sleep habits 7 to 10 days before school starts. Set their bedtime and wake-up time earlier each day, allowing their bodies to adjust. By doing so, they'll be well-rested and ready to excel when school begins.

A good night’s sleep is essential for children’s concentration, memory, and overall performance. A consistent routine with a regular bedtime will help your child feel energized and ready to learn when school begins.

2. Focus on the Positive Aspects of School

It's normal for children to be anxious about returning to school. They may worry about meeting new teachers, their class schedule, or making new friends. Instead of allowing your child to focus on potential worries, encourage them to look at the positive side of things.

Ask them questions like:

"What are you most excited about for the new school year?"
"Is there a subject you are looking forward to?"
"What new things would you like to try this year?"

Discussing the fun parts of school can help. It can shift their focus from anxiety to excitement. They might enjoy seeing friends or joining after-school activities. Framing the new school year as a chance to grow and have fun will boost your child's excitement and confidence about returning to class.

3. Set Academic Goals

Setting academic goals is a powerful way to motivate your child. Work with them to find areas for improvement, like reading, math, or time management. Then, create a plan to achieve these goals.

For example, you could set a goal to improve their reading level or practice certain skills at home. Reward systems are also a great way to keep children motivated. If they reach a goal, like completing their homework for a month or doing well on a test, reward them. A small prize, like a trip to their favorite place or a treat, will do.

Setting achievable academic goals will keep your child engaged in their studies. It will also give them a sense of accomplishment when they reach these milestones.

4. Identify Priorities and Stick to a Routine

As the school year begins, it’s important to have a clear idea of what should take precedence in your child’s day. Schoolwork is obviously a priority, but there are also extracurricular activities, sports practices, family time, and rest. It’s essential to set priorities to ensure that your child isn’t overwhelmed.

Establish a daily routine with your child that balances schoolwork, activities, and relaxation. Prioritize academic tasks, and make homework a pre-dinner requirement.

Limit screen time to after homework is complete. Discuss these priorities with your child and set clear rules for activity schedules. This routine will keep them organized and stress-free.

Children thrive on predictability. A set schedule gives them a sense of security and teaches them to manage their time effectively. A routine from the start eliminates last-minute cramming. It also reduces the stress of juggling multiple activities.

5. Connect with the Teacher

Teachers are a valuable resource for parents. They spend a lot of time with your child and have insights into how your child behaves in a classroom setting. Regular contact with your child's teacher can help you. It will show you where your child excels and where they need support.

For example, if your child struggles in a subject or with peers, the teacher can advise you on how to help. Working with teachers helps you learn about events, assignments, and ways to improve. Reaching out to teachers helps your child succeed. It keeps you involved in their education.

6. Look After the Basics: Nutrition and Exercise

A balanced diet and regular exercise are key to your child's focus and success in school. When children are hungry or tired, it becomes much harder for them to concentrate and perform well. Therefore, it’s important to reset their eating habits as school approaches.

Ensure that your child is eating nutritious meals that provide energy and help them concentrate throughout the day. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein-rich foods in their meals. For snacks, choose healthy options like yogurt, fruit, or nuts. Avoid sugary snacks that can lead to energy crashes and distract them from their studies.

Physical activity is also essential for maintaining focus and good health. Make sure your child gets regular exercise, whether through sports, outdoor play, or family activities like biking or walking. Physical activity not only strengthens the body but also helps reduce stress and boosts mental clarity.

7. Develop Strong Study Habits

Now that your child is back in school, it’s the perfect time to help them establish strong study habits. Good study habits are essential for academic success and help children learn how to study effectively. Wondering how to choose the right Spanish program for your child this school year? We’ll touch on that as part of setting strong study habits.

Educators and parents alike are beginning to understand why Spanish is one of the most valuable subjects for young learners today, especially in our increasingly globalized world.

Here are a few simple study tips for parents to implement with their children:

Set a consistent study time:
Create a distraction-free environment. Set up a quiet, well-lit space for your child to study. Remove distractions like TV and social media. This will help them concentrate and make studying more productive.
Teach your child effective study techniques. Have them experiment with different methods to find what works best. They'll reinforce their learning by summarizing what they've learned, taking breaks, and quizzing themselves on key concepts. These techniques significantly improve retention and make studying more efficient.
Stay organized:
Review regularly:

By helping your child develop good study habits early on, you’re setting them up for success throughout the school year.

Conclusion

Back-to-school season brings a fresh start for children and parents alike. By implementing the right strategies, you'll make the transition seamless. This ensures your child excels in the new school year.

Our expert tips empower your child, establishing healthy sleep routines and strong study habits. As a result, they'll feel fully prepared, motivated, and confident.

As a parent, you must support your child. It is vital for their academic and emotional health.

You can help your child succeed by:

This will ease the back-to-school transition.