Children Returning to School

Regular classes have resumed in many parts of the country and more will start after Labor Day.

This is a time that is filled with mixed emotions for parents and children alike. There is excitement and trepidation. For the “littles,” many have no idea what to expect. Here are some ideas to roll around that may help this transition easier for all concerned.

First Day/Week/Month

If possible, take your child to the classroom before the first day of school. This can ease some nerves about where to go or what things will look like. Also, explore other areas like the playground or cafeteria.

Casually ask what your child may be concerned about. Try to problem-solve in advance. Focus on the fun aspects like resuming old friendships.

See your kids off. That may mean walking them to school, or driving them to the bus stop. If you can arrange your schedule, be there when they come home.

Sleep

Being rested is beneficial to both the adult and the child. At least two weeks before the start of school, create a consistent bedtime and wake up. Make sure there is a routine that will psychologically signal a time to settle down and go to sleep. Turn off all electronic devices.

Set the wake up time with a few (5 to 10) minutes extra. This will help adjust for delays like wardrobe malfunctions and breakfast.

Travel

There are basic safety reminders that kids can always use.

• Look both ways to be sure traffic is clear.
• Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before getting on or off.
• Exit and walk in front of the bus. They need to be able to see the driver so the driver will also see them.
• Double check to see what the rules are about food on the bus.
• If parents are driving carpool, all children must be securely seat belted.
• Children under the age of 13 must ride in a rear seat.
• If your teen is a driver, reinforce seat belt rules, maintaining the speed limit, and use of devices.
• Biking has its own set of rules, including helmets, using bike lanes when available, full stop at stop signs and traffic signals, and reflective gear.
• Walking should only be in a safe route and crossing guards should be at the school. You may want to consider a “walk pool” (similar to a car pool) where adults take turns walking the kiddos to and from school. Be sure each child knows the adult who will accompany them. If not, have a plan to verify the individual to prevent child abduction. That includes non-custodial parents. Kids are wily and mischevious, so the adult needs to be alert and not on his or her devices.

Backpacks

• Choose carefully. Make sure it has wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back. The child should always use both shoulder straps and the bottom of the pack is at the child’s waist.
• Organize the contents by using the compartments. Heavier items near the center of the back. Weigh the child and separately weigh the backpack. The backpack should be less than 10% or 20% of the child’s weight.
• Go through the backpack with your child at the end of each week. You can remove unneeded items and be sure you know of any notes or notices that are sent home.

Bullying

There have always been bullies and there always will be. One one person picks on another repeatedly, physically, verbally, or socially, any where, this is bullying.

• If your child is the victim of a bully or bullies:
  • Notify the school officials and work to find a reasonable solution.
  • Work with your child to help them recognize playful teasing and bullying. Train them in the language to use to ask an adult for help. Acknowledge feelings.
  • Find appropriate responses.
• If your child is the bully.
  • Set firm and consistent rules and guidelines, letting your children know bullying is never acceptable.
  • Watch for aggressive behavior.
  • Develop solutions by working with the school personnel.
  • Find a good counselor.

Homework

Create a space that is homework friendly. That will give the child consistency and a location that is free of distractions. Checklists, parental supervision or check-ins, and timers can help greatly to make this odious task do-able.

If your child seems to struggle, speak with the teacher to find a solution including tutors or special instructions.