Navigating the Return to School: 5 Tips for a Smooth Transition

The new school year is quickly approaching, and it's a much-welcome reprieve for many
parents. It reminds me of that commercial with the dad singing and dancing, "It's the
most wonderful time of the year," down the aisles of Staples. However, for some parents,
this time can bring sadness as another summer ends, and they hold on to the
last few days of freedom from structure.

Perhaps you're feeling both of these emotions. Either way, returning to school is a big
transition that can leave many of us stressed and under pressure. Can anyone relate?

Along with the pressure we feel, our children are possibly experiencing 
excitement and maybe even anxieties about the approaching new school year. Many
adjustments must be made, whether starting at a new school or moving up a grade. As
parents, we often wonder how we can help alleviate the mounting stress and make the
transitions into the new year as smooth as possible.

Here are five tips to help you and your child have a smooth transition:

1. GET FAMILIAR with the school information. Even if you are already familiar with
the school, take the time to read the materials sent by the school as soon as they arrive.
There may be new policies, new teachers, and new schedules. Make sure you are up to
date BEFORE school begins. The first several days, if not weeks, of school and new
routines, will be busy enough without dealing with last-minute sign-ups and figuring out
what school supplies are needed. Stay ahead of the game by familiarizing yourself with
pertinent upcoming school calendar dates.

2) CREATE A CALENDAR that includes all the important dates, such as holidays and
special events, as well as individual events for each child and yourself. Write in music
lessons, club meetings, sports practices, volunteer duties, doctor appointments, hair
appointments, and even date nights out! Display the calendar where everyone can see it
and consider color-coding each family member's activities for easy organization. Clear
and direct communication through a shared calendar can help reduce family chaos and
confusion, keeping everyone involved in the know and on the same page.

3) BEGIN RE-ESTABLISHING bedtime, wake-up time, and mealtime routines
before school begins. This is an incredible way to transition from the less structured
summer schedule to the more structured school routine without facing immediate
consequences, like being late because it's hard to get up. You and your child can adapt
more quickly to the new schedule by gradually adjusting sleep and meal routines.

4) ARRANGE A VISIT to the school. Especially helpful if your child is starting a new
school or moving to a new class with a new teacher and is nervous about it. Call to
schedule a visit to the campus. See if you can meet the teacher, explore the classrooms,
and walk your child's route from drop-off to their class. This visit provides an
opportunity to address any concerns or anxieties your child may have, allowing you to
offer reassurance and create actionable plans ahead of time.

5) ALONG WITH addressing any worries and anxieties your child may have about the
new year, take the time to find out what they are looking forward to! Ask open-ended
questions to encourage conversation and engagement.

For instance:
- What are they most looking forward to?
- What are they hoping to learn this year?
- What new activities would they like to try?
- What will you share about your favorite part of summer?

These steps can help your family start the school year feeling confident, positive, and
ready to go. They have worked well for me and my family, and I hope they will also help
you and your family.

Have a great last couple of weeks of summer, and here's to a fantastic school year!
Best wishes,
Claire