The summer is quickly coming to an end and the school year is already upon us.
Here is how to make a smooth transition to a great new school year with a little bit of preparation:
1. Become familiar with the school
If your child is attending the same school as last year, great! If not, peek into the library or a classroom together to make him or her feel secure.
2. Facilitate your child’s bonding with other kids
If your child knows any other kids, he or she will feel more comfortable on the first day of school If it is a new town for you, try to meet other kids in the neighborhood during the summer through sports and playdates.
3. Talk about school
Get your kids excited for the new school year by talking about the playground, snack, art, and reading.
4. Wake up your child’s brain
Studies have shown that kids can forget a lot over the summer. Wake up your child’s brain with books, old flash cards, etc.
5. Practice saying ‘goodbye’
Saying ‘goodbye’ is hard for many kids. Practice saying ‘goodbye’ by developing a routine. For example, hug and say, “Have a great day, I love you! See you at 2!”.
6. Get your child back on the school schedule
Slowly have your child go to bed earlier as the school year approaches, so that when its time to wake up early on the first day of school they are well rested and ready for the day.
7. Get yourself to bed early the night before school
Be prepared for any chaos that may ensue Monday morning by being well rested yourself.
Echo Park Speech Therapy recommends practicing these tips during the last weeks of summer so you and your child can have a fantastic school year!
