Do These 6 Things Before the Kids Go Back to School

As the summer winds down, you might be wondering how to best prepare your kids for the upcoming school year. Establishing a daily routine, organizing school supplies, and reviewing academic goals are just a few steps that can set a positive tone. Don’t overlook the importance of communicating with teachers and planning healthy meals, either. Each of these actions plays a crucial role in ensuring your children transition smoothly back into their academic lives. But what happens if you skip these essential steps? The consequences could be more significant than you think.

1. Organize Closet

Having a neat closet may simplify mornings and ensure that everyone gets off to a good start. Investing a small amount of time on organizing the family closet, coat closet, or children’s bedrooms will yield year-round benefits.

How to Put a Closet Into Order:

a. Empty the Closet: Remove everything and thoroughly clean the closet. Dust all corners, vacuum the floor, and wipe down the shelves.
b. Arrange and Clear Out: Sort through everything and determine what to donate, keep, or discard. Be truthful about what you have outgrown or found unnecessary.
c. Sort things into categories such as shirts, pants, school uniforms, and accessories. To maintain smaller stuff organized, use bins or baskets.
d. Label: To make it simple for everyone to locate and store objects, clearly label shelves, bins, or drawers.
e. Make an outfit plan: You might want to make a weekly one. During hectic mornings, use a hanging organizer that has spaces designated for every day of the week to save time.

2. Organize School Supplies

A well-organized set of school supplies can enhance your daily routine and help you stay focused. Start by gathering all your supplies in one place.

Sort items into categories: writing tools, paper products, and art supplies. Use clear bins or pouches to keep everything tidy and visible. Label each container, so you know exactly where to find what you need.

Check your inventory before shopping for new supplies. This way, you won’t waste money on duplicates.

Create a designated study area where all your supplies are easily accessible. Keep a planner or calendar handy to track assignments and deadlines.

3. Review Academic Goals

Setting clear academic goals is essential for staying focused and motivated throughout the school year. Start by reflecting on your child’s strengths and areas for improvement. Discuss their aspirations and what they hope to achieve academically.

Break these goals down into smaller, manageable steps, such as improving in a specific subject or completing homework on time. Encourage your child to set both short-term and long-term goals, making sure they’re realistic and attainable.

Write these goals down and place them somewhere visible, like on the fridge or in their study area. Regularly check in with your child to track their progress and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small.

This practice not only boosts motivation but also builds a sense of responsibility and accountability.

4. Communicate With Teachers

Maintaining open communication with teachers can significantly enhance your child’s educational experience.

Don’t wait for parent-teacher conferences; reach out early and often. Introduce yourself via email or a phone call, and express your enthusiasm for your child’s learning. Share any concerns or insights about your child’s strengths and challenges. This openness fosters a positive relationship and helps teachers understand your child better.

Encourage your child to engage with their teachers too. Remind them to ask questions and seek help when needed.

Stay informed about school events and important dates, and respond promptly to any communications from the school. By being an active participant in your child’s education, you set the stage for their success and create a supportive learning environment.

5. Plan Healthy Meals

Nutrition plays a crucial role in your child’s ability to focus and learn effectively. To set them up for success, plan healthy meals that include a balance of proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Start by creating a weekly menu that incorporates various foods, ensuring they get essential vitamins and minerals. Involve your child in the planning process; this can make them excited about trying new dishes.

Don’t forget to pack nutritious snacks for school, like yogurt, nuts, or fresh fruit, to keep their energy levels up throughout the day.

Preparing meals in advance can save time during busy mornings. By prioritizing healthy eating, you’re giving your child the fuel they need to thrive academically.

6. Establish a Daily Routine

Establishing a daily routine can make a significant difference in how smoothly your school year goes. When you set specific times for waking up, studying, and completing homework, you create a sense of structure that helps you stay focused.

Start by deciding what time you’ll wake up each day and stick to it, even on weekends. Next, carve out dedicated study times; this consistency reinforces your learning.

Prioritize your tasks by creating a daily to-do list, so you know exactly what needs attention. Include breaks to recharge your brain—a short walk or snack can do wonders.

Lastly, make sure to wind down each evening with a calming activity, ensuring you’re ready to tackle the next day.