Getting back into the school routine
School supplies are appearing on store shelves! Clothing stores are advertising school clothes and uniforms! That exciting time of the year is almost here – Back to School! There is so much to be done – new school clothes and shoes, school supplies, haircuts, doctor and dentist appointments – a busy time for kids, parents and teachers. One way to make it less stressful is to start easing into a schedule so the first day of school won't be such a shock to everyone.
Most parents allow their kids to stay up later, sleep later in the mornings, and eat meals at odd times during the summer. Then, when school starts, what a shock for them to be awakened by that awful alarm clock or by someone urging them to get up and get ready for school "right now." To help make the transition to school days less stressful, here are some suggestions.
A good routine will work wonders. Kids need to have a set bedtime so they will get enough rest and feel good when they wake up in the morning. Every child is different, so the ideal bedtime for your child will depend on his or her individual needs. Staying up late, however, is not healthy for any child who has to get up early for school. It is helpful to do as much as possible the night before – bathe, lay out clothes, pack the book bag with everything needed, pack a lunch, anything to take the pressure off the next morning.
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Nancy Blanchard, Ed.S, NCC/NCSC, LPC is a counselor at Highland and Lenwil Elementary Schools in West Monroe. |
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