Transitioning Your Kids Back to School

After a summer of swimming parties, outdoor activities and lazy play days, it’s natural for your child to dread the return to a more structured school schedule. Transitioning back to school doesn’t have to be a struggle, though. Prepare your child for the changes the school year will bring by discussing expectations and arranging fun activities to build the excitement.

Allow your child to get back in touch with friends or meet new classmates by arranging playdates before the first day of school, suggests Walfish. You might also ask the principal for a class roster with contact numbers. “If your child can make one or two friends before school starts, he will be so much happier to go to school,” she says. “This is a sure antidote to school loneliness and feelings of isolation."

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If your summer schedule includes staying up late and sleeping in, it’s time to get back to a school sleep schedule at least two weeks before the first day. Prevent bedtime battles by gradually adjusting your child’s bedtime before school starts. “This will help your child’s body get into the groove of winding down and waking up at an earlier hour,” says Walfish. “When school begins, your child’s body, energy and focus will be prepared for school’s physical and mental expectations and demands.”

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Parents should begin to implement school routines and schedules at least a week or two before school starts, says Christina Soriano, an art specialist in New York City schools. “Use a timer and make it a game,” suggests Soriano. “Have your child complete basic actions, like packing and unpacking schoolbags and lunch boxes, creating a designated space for doing homework and other activities, and having a sign by the door that reminds kids what should be in their bag the night before.”

If your child is reluctant to transition back into the classroom, try role playing to help him practice his social skills. Ask your child to pretend to be introducing himself to new teachers or friends, suggests Soriano. “Have him make a list of questions he has for his new teacher,” she says. “It will provoke his own curiosity for what lies ahead.”

Fuel your child’s excitement for the beginning of school with new gadgets and supplies for the classroom. Make it specific for your child and allow her to pick out a backpack, colorful folders and brand new pens and pencils. Plan a special day to pick up supplies and a special lunch outing to celebrate the start of the school year.

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One great way to get kids ready to think about school is a closing summer ritual, says Alexandra Mayzler, founder of Thinking Caps Group, a tutoring company in New York. Have your child put together a scrapbook or write a review of the summer. “By having the student reflect on all the great things of the summer, it will give them closure on the season and help them mentally prepare for the school year ahead,” says Mayzler.