CONTRIBUTED CONTENT — What is your best back-to-school memory? For most children and youth, returning to school is an exciting time filled with anticipation about new teachers, new classes and new friends.
After a summer break that typically includes the freedom to spend lots of time being active and staying up late or sleeping in, the process of getting back to an academic schedule can be difficult. Here are some time-tested back-to-school hacks for students – and parents, too!
Communicate
An often-overlooked tool in a successful back-to-school experience is communication between parents, guardians, children and siblings. Family members each have their own ideas about how things should go.
By assuming everyone has the best intentions in mind, take the time to have a conversation within your family group to share ideas and iron out any discrepancies before school begins. This helps to ensure a happy result with fewer surprises when the big day arrives.
Organize
There are lots of great hacks for back-to-school organization. Creating an individual or family calendar, setting up a homework or after-school snack station, and cleaning out desks or closets are a few ideas you might consider. The point is: make time to get yourself organized so that you start the school year from a position of strength rather than racing to catch up.
Prepare
Just like other major events, returning to school requires forethought and planning. When done in advance, things like new shoes, adjusted bedtimes and stocking up on nutritious lunchbox items will help reduce tension and anxiety.
Returning to school also requires up-to-date immunizations. Get them done early to avoid the last-minute rush to the pediatrician or clinic for well-child check appointments and immunizations.
Enjoy
Going back to school is an opportunity for a fresh start. You can’t change the past or predict the future, but you can focus on enjoying the present and staying positive and optimistic about the day.
A great hack for staying anchored in the moment is to journal your thoughts and try to pick one thing for which you are thankful. When you feel overwhelmed or “stuck,” ask yourself, “What’s one enjoyable thing I can do to move forward?” Step by step, you can claim enjoyment of your back-to-school experience.
Written by LORI WRIGHT, CEO of Family Healthcare.
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Resources
- Family Healthcare | Address: 25 N. 100 East #102, St. George | Telephone: 435-986-2565 | Website.
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