5 Ways to Ease the Summer-to-School Transition
Introduction
This time of the year can be exciting and anxiety-producing for a child preparing for the new school year. Parents can help ease the transition, while also enjoying last-minute shopping and activities. Here are five valuable tips to help your child transition from summer break to school.
Discuss Feelings About School
First, discuss your child’s feelings regarding the new school year. Ask them questions such as: “What are you most excited about in the upcoming school year?” “What are you worried about?” As much as possible, listen to your child’s responses without interrupting, and also practice active listening by repeating back what the child says and acknowledging their feelings.
The goal in discussing feelings is to let your child vent, which will help relieve much of the stress. Unloading will also teach your child to think critically and come up with solutions. Problem-solving is a valuable skill.
So, set a time for back-to-school discussion as this is a special bonding time.
Maintain a Positive Attitude
Show some optimism regarding school. You may want to say, “This is going to be a great year,” and believe it. You can also display the affirmation on a poster and display it around the house.
Additionally, express your excitement about meeting the new teacher. Also, focus on your child’s strengths and positive qualities, and use positive feedback to reinforce them. If math is a strength, then you may say: “You’ll do so well in math.” And for a child good at reading, you may add, “You’ve done so much reading this summer, your teacher will be impressed.”
Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Next, establish a consistent bedtime routine, such as going to bed at an early hour and waking up at the same time every day. A consistent bedtime routine is key, especially for the developing brain, and it can include discussing the day, reading a story, and practicing relaxation techniques.
Children who get a good night’s rest tend to perform well academically.
According to the Sleep Foundation, “30% of children and 75% of adolescents are not getting the right amount of sleep.” (www.sleepfoundation.com)
Without sufficient sleep, children can experience difficulties with memory, attention, and problem-solving, as well as develop emotional issues. They can also develop health problems such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. (www.udel.edu)
The following are the recommended sleep durations for children and adults.
Recommended Sleep Durations
- 12-17 for newborns and infants
- 11-14 for ages 1-2
- 10-13 for ages 3-5
- 9-11 for ages 6-13
- 8-10 for ages 14-17
- 7-9 for adults
(www.sleepfoundation.com)
Create a Quiet and Comfortable Study Area
In addition to good sleep habits, also help your child create a study area free from distractions. Common distractions include loud noises and excessive use of technology. Headphones may be helpful if the house is deafening.
It is also beneficial to have good lightening and a comfortable chair. A lamp and an area rug make the room warm and cozy. However, while decorating, allow your child to choose the room's color and what to include.
Ultimately, a well-chosen study area leads to enhanced focus, increased productivity, and improved time management. (www.cdc.gov)
Help Your Child Embrace Change
Finally, please help your child embrace change by setting goals together and keeping a journal to record feelings for the new school year.
Change is something most people resist, but change can be a good thing. Autumn, the character in my book, Autumn’s Adventure with Daddy: A Tale of Beauty and Happiness, goes through change and faces challenges. Ultimately, she finds peace and happiness.
As difficult as change may be, remind your child of how much she will learn and grow this year, and how this change is good. Also, please share your plans to ensure school success, as involved parents can make a significant, positive difference.
Conclusion
As the new school year approaches, your child may experience a range of emotions. To help ease the transition, parents can discuss their child’s feelings, maintain a positive attitude, establish a sleep routine, and help their child embrace change while also enjoying last-minute pursuits.
Wishing your child a wonderful and successful school year,
Elvira
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. If your child is severely anxious about starting school, consider seeking professional help from a pediatrician or a therapist.