How to Prepare and Excite Your Child for the New School Year

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It’s hard to believe that the holiday is more than half way done. Next thing you know, it’ll be time for the new school year. If you’re a stay-at-home parent, this means it’s almost “vacation” time for you! For your kids, it means the end of late nights, and the endless supply of popsicles that summer brings.

So, if you’re wondering how to make the back to school process less painful and maybe even enjoyable – look no more! Check out these tips to help you and your kids prepare for the new school year

Seven Tips For Back-to-School Season

1. Start following the usual “back to school” routine one to two weeks before school starts. Yes, I know it’s tempting to let your kids stay up late to enjoy the last few days of summer, but it will be easier for everyone once school starts.
2. Organize a clothing swap. Before you start your back-to-school shopping, organize a clothing swap to see if there’s anything that your kids can use that others have outgrown or got bored of. If you have girls, treat it like a mini fashion show and serve snacks. Very few girls don’t enjoy dressing up! With boys is a little different. I know if I mention anything about clothes shopping to my son he will immediately run away. So, the solution for this is just including the parents. The outcome is still the same, your child will get “new” clothes for the new school year.
3. Make back to school shopping a special occasion. After the clothing swap, make a list of things your kids still need, research special sales going on and plan your shopping trip. Also, if your children hate shopping, make it a special occasion by taking them to the park or out to eat afterward.
4. Have a “back to school” party. Even if you decide not to do a clothing swap, you could still throw a party to celebrate the upcoming new school year. This will get your kids more excited about the end of summer and may look forward to having a party each year.
5. Take a tour of the school before school starts and meet the teacher. Starting a new school year can be scary. Especially if you just moved and it’s a new school, make the time to take a tour before the new school year starts. Follow your child’s schedule starting from the bus stop at home, go to each classroom and back at the bus stop where you started. This will help you both get familiarized and feel less anxious the first day of school.
6. If your child has a special need, make sure that the teachers are aware of it before school starts. The teachers need to know this so your child can get the accommodations he or she needs. For instance, your child may have a condition that is not easily detected, such as Asperger’s Disorder, and it may be confused with ADHD or another disorder. By preparing everyone involved with special instructions, everyone will enjoy the new school year and worry less.
7. Talk with your kids about about their thoughts and feelings regarding the new school year. Do they feel scared? Are they excited? Anxious? Talking about it will bring everybody closer together and if any issues arise during the school year, your child will feel more comfortable about bringing it up and discussing it with you.