Going back to school after the holidays isn't always easy for both parents and children. During the festive season, children get accustomed to a school-free lifestyle and continuous playtime. Sometimes this leads to children becoming lethargic during the first few days of school. However, there are some measures parents can put in place to avoid this.
Let's explore some tips that can help children ease back into school after the holidays.
Set goals
Before school reopens it is important to have a conversation with children about their expectations for the next term. Parents can talk about highlights of their previous term and things they can probably do better in the incoming term. These types of conversations allow children to mentally prepare for the term ahead and also gives parents a chance to reiterate morning routines and schedules.
Build daily structures
Establishing some rules before school starts can help children ease into the new term. Routines such as going to bed early, having breakfast at the same time every morning, doing homework among others can be re-established. This helps bring structure and order to both the lives of parents and children before the first day of school.
Plan and do things in advance
To avoid being flustered on the first day of school, parents should buy school items ahead of time. School supplies and textbooks can be bought before schools reopen. Parents can ensure that books and pencils are packed in backpacks the night before. In a household where children eat lunch from home, it will be helpful for parents to prep ingredients the previous day. Picking out shoes, ironing uniforms, and scheduling transportation are ways to prepare for any school day.
Have an open mind
As a new term starts, schools might roll out new academic initiatives, extracurricular activities, and other school programmes. Parents should prepare for changes in school schedules. Children can suddenly stop one extracurricular activity and gain interest in another one. Parents must be involved and address any concerns and interest their children may have towards changes in academic and extracurricular activities.
Take away distractions
It is important to gradually reduce screen time for children. Children will find it hard to focus on schoolwork if they are still being allowed to play games and watch as much TV as they did during the holidays. In place of screens, children can be encouraged to read a book or two during the day. This can help children transition from the holidays to school work without abruptly changing their activities overnight.
Make time for school updates
Being a parent while working full time can be difficult at times. However, research has shown that children tend to do better in school when parents take an active role in their education. Parents must make time to listen and have conversations with their children and teacher about daily activities that occur in schools. This keeps parents informed about what goes on with their children.