10 things to know about before school starts

10 things to know about before school starts

Summer is ending and soon students will be back in class for the 2019-20 school year! Educators say it is important to set the tone for the school year on day one, and encourage parents to not only help their child get prepared but for them to get organized for a successful start. 

Whatever age your children are, teachers, principals and superintendents say you can take steps to ensure a seamless transition between summer vacation and the start of school. Below are the top 10 things to think about to help make the transition back to school easier. 

10. Have you and your child shopped for back to school supplies? Ready. Set. Go. It’s time to gear up for school. Make sure to check the supply list and get the best deals around! 

9.  Children need at least 10 hours of sleep: ZzzZZzz. To get your child ready for back to school, start getting them back into their normal bedtime routine. Students need 10 hours of sleep a night to help them stay energized and focused throughout the day!

8. Start the day with a healthy breakfast: Yum!! Breakfast is a must. It is the most important meal of the day. It keeps kids’ brains sharp and helps with productivity and concentration.

7. Make sure your child has a reusable water bottle to use at school: Hydrate! Hydrate! Encourage your child to drink water. Do this by giving them a reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated is important for your child’s health and focus throughout the school day. It helps lessen sick days and improves grades. 

6. Have you figured out your drop-off plan? Mornings can be busy and we know how important it is to get to school on time. Make sure to have a morning routine so your child can get started on the right foot.

5. Make sure your child knows the after school plan! Whether your child is riding the school bus, walking, riding their bikes or getting picked up — they must be reminded constantly of being safe at all times. 

4. Talk to your child to see how they’re feeling about school starting. Transitions can be difficult for both new and returning students. Have a conversation with your child about how they are feeling and encourage open communication so they start off on the right foot. 

3. Work with your child to pack their backpack: Create a checklist of everything you need including school supplies, forms, lunch, etc. Set everything out beforehand and have your child organize it and put it into their backpack. 

2. Plan your first day of school outfit: Smile! We know the first day of school will come with lots of pictures, make sure you are ready for the big day. Remember it doesn’t matter if it is new or old, as long as your child feels great in it.  

1. Do something fun and celebrate the last day of summer. Enjoy the last hoorah! Go on a bike ride, go get some ice cream or go for a last swim before school starts. Enjoy some quality time with family or friends before life gets into a different routine.