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Preparing Your Child for Back-To-School:

By Tammy Kong on 31/12/2021

The first few days of school can be challenging for children to adapt to after a long holiday. Find tips for a smooth transition and help your child get ready for back to school:

Easing back into the school routine

Getting back into a school sleep schedule will not happen overnight! Gradually get your child used to sleeping early and waking up early to reset their internal clock. We recommend trying this out for at least a week for them to adapt. Focus on a consistent wake-up time and discourage long naps (except for the one that corresponds to school naptime). This way, your child will be mentally and physically ready for school to start.

Establishing a consistent routine is important for kids. This could be implemented by rehearsing an after school routine that involves them taking a shower, doing homework and reading before bed. In addition, sticking to regular meal times is helpful in establishing healthy habits.

Involve your child in every aspect

Run through your child’s timetable with him/her and discuss their feelings towards school, friends, teachers and new activities. Discussing the scenarios that worry them is also a good way to ease those back-to-school jitters. For example, if they are worried about who to talk to on the first day, come up with a strategy together. Look through some of his/her new school materials together so they will know what to expect for the new school term.

Supervise or pack your child’s school bag with him/her to ensure that they know what goes into each compartment. Come to a consensus with your child regarding his/her school allowance.

Go school shopping

A ritual of shopping for back-to-school can definitely brighten one’s mood and this allows them to even anticipate going back to school. It does not have to be something expensive. Shopping for new stationery or a snack meant for school will be a fun family bonding activity.

Practicing school/academic skills

For the younger ones, practice with them how to queue in an orderly manner in the school canteen and purchase their lunches during breaks. Review small tasks together like spelling their full name, reciting their telephone number and looking both ways before crossing the road.

For the older kids, revising some of the old concepts learnt last semester or reviewing their new education materials will make it easier for them to transition back to school work. Set expectations and academic goals together.

Let us know how your child’s back-to-school went!