It comes around once a year, every year.  We’re talking about the kids going back to school and all of the chores, responsibilities, and preparations that go along with it.  Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on back to school tips.  Our tips will reduce the frustration that usually accompanies the hustle and bustle of back to school.  We’re offering a few helpful suggestions to assist in organizing and getting you started early might be of service:

Get School Supplies

Getting school supplies should be at the top of most people’s list.  But, you would be surprised at how many folks wait until the last minute to get even the basic essentials.  This includes writing tools, paper, folders, and backpacks.  By waiting so late a lot of supply stores are barren.  And, you really aren’t getting quality products for your child. That may not be the way that we want to start off their school year.

Set Aside Time to Work on Assignments

One good way to get your child back into the swing of doing homework is by giving them small assignments before school starts.  This will gradually increase a few minutes every week.  By the time they are back in class it’s not such a shock to their system.

Setting up a dedicated work station that they will use throughout the year is also a good idea too. Children have a way of falling out of the habit of learning and concentrating over the summer. The sooner they can get back into the routine, the easier the beginning of the school year becomes.

Establish a Routine and Set a Bedtime

So, we suggest starting it at least a week (and preferably two) before the first day of school. This includes everything from taking a bath to what point the TV or devices are turned off.  We suggest you start at least an hour before their designated bedtime.  Blue screens have been known to hinder melatonin production in the brain.  It becomes a robber of a much needed natural sleep aid.

Getting a good night’s rest is vital for a child.  For general reference: preschoolers need ten to thirteen hours of sleep, school age children need nine to eleven hours, and teenagers need eight to ten.

Create Positive Habits

When you get a routine going, positive habits can and should be instituted as well.  Getting up early, eating a healthy breakfast, taking care of a few chores, and any other beneficial activities and recreations can be introduced.

Take the Time to Address any Anxiety or Stress

Don’t let the urgency of the season create an unnecessary strain on the emotional well being of your child.  Sit down with him or her and talk about anything that may be bothering them.  Furthermore, ask them what’s on their minds. The start of a new year can be quite scary for many children.  And, it’s common for them to be concerned about meeting new people and making friends.

Keep the above back to school tips in mind, and your child will be sure to have a great, uneventful return to school.