There is so much that goes into getting the home and family from lazy poolside days to early morning school days.
It’s more than the exhausting task of back to school supplies, it’s the mental preparedness associated with the transition.
As every mom knows, transitions aren’t always the most fun when it comes to kids. So, how does one convince a child that school is something fun to look forward to?
Well, fret no more. We have the solution to the end of summer conflict.
Make memorable traditions you can do with your child at the start of the school year, so they will look forward to more than the summer starting again.
Presented are some great ideas that give you and your child a healthy and energetic kick-off to a productive school year.
1. Back to school shopping
Getting new clothes for school is something most kids look forward to. Have your children look forward to an end of summer spree by setting a particular date each year you go; like the week before the start of school.
Let your child pick out a few of their favorite stores to shop from. If your child is too young to remember the names of particular locations, have them pick out some favorite themes to look for; such as superhero gear, or My Little Pony shoes.
Use lunchtime as a bonding opportunity with your child, giving encouragement to them, as well as letting them vent about any anxieties they face concerning going back.
2. Pick one last summer throw down
Between family vacation, the pool, and summer camps your child may feel like all the excitement is behind them.
Create the tradition of a back-to-school extravaganza where you allow them to partake in a closing summer bash .
This could be a sleepover, a day at the water park, or a late night movie binge with popcorn and candy.
Choosing a sleepover doesn’t have to be run of the mill either with memorable games that will keep the kiddos entertained and having a blast, as Mommy Underground has previously reported.
3. Meet and Greet
PopSugar Mom has an expert recommendation for helping your child enter the new classroom with confidence:
“Most schools offer a “meet the teacher” day or evening, and it’s a great idea to attend. Not only will it give you a chance to drop off school supplies so your kid isn’t carrying an arsenal of markers and folders on that first day, but it will ease any anxieties about classroom location and not recognizing new faces, making your child feel a lot better about walking into school solo that first day.”
Familiarizing your child with the classroom they will spend the year in, the halls they will walk, and knowing where the bathroom is will definitely help with some of the first-day jitters every kid is sure to face.
4. First Morning Back Special
On the morning of the first day of school, make a memorable breakfast that they will love, but don’t get all the time.
The classic smiley face pancakes with strawberries and whipped cream is sure to please or make one of their favorites that you may not approve of every morning; like waffles with chocolate chips.
Give your unique meal of the day a healthy twist to keep your child clear-headed, and not starving by second period. Mommy Underground has reported on ways to make this happen.
5. Memorable Lunch Bag
It’s easy for your child to get nostalgic at lunchtime the first day of school. They are trying to find out where their place is in the cafeteria, while chatter ensues about all the fun everyone had during summer break.
Give them a sign that you care by packing a special lunch for your child, topped with a note encouraging them through the second half of their day.
A small toy inside is a nice surprise or a fun shaped sandwich that makes them laugh. Be sure to add items with lots of color, like strawberries and carrots, to invoke a positive mood.
6. First Weekend Back Fun
After the first week of school, have a fun “mommy and me” evening planned. Dinner and a movie or bowling are fun ideas.
Just make sure you have some downtime to discuss the first week at school. Find out how they like their teachers, if they made friends, and if they had any conflict.
Point out their academic strengths and offer support on any weaknesses, such as one-on-one time in the evening to go over math homework.
Summer is full of adventure and liberties that you don’t get during the school year when responsibilities grow, but it doesn’t have to be dreaded.
Knowing how to transition to school with activities lets your child know that there is more fun to be had.
School is a time of growth and new experiences that offer every young person opportunities to make another year unforgettable.
(h/t Mommy Underground)