Beat the Back to School Blues

53.8 million students are projected to enroll in the nation’s elementary and high schools (grades K-12) this fall. That number exceeds the 1969 total of 51.6 million when the last of the “baby boom” children swelled school enrollments, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. More children in school means more of you are affected by Back to School season—which can often be a sizeable mountain to overcome. Here are a few ideas to help you keep your sanity as the first day of school approaches—whether you’re sending your kids, or yourself off to school this fall.

GET THE FACTS
Make sure you have all the information you need for the first day. Find out what time school starts and ends the first day—some schools have modified schedules on the first day of class. Call the school to see that they have all of the registration and medical forms they need for your child. Find out what the school’s dress code entails so you don’t end up buying things that can’t be worn to school. This will save headaches and money! Get the cafeteria menu so you know if you need to pack a lunch or not. Having all of these details will help you feel more comfortable sending your kids off to school.

PREP TIME
Use the night before the first day of school to prepare for the frenzy of the upcoming day. Help your child lay out the clothes he or she will wear the first day and make sure everything is clean and ironed. Pack backpacks to avoid forgetting anything at the last minute. If your child doesn’t like what is being offered in the cafeteria, pack a lunch and refrigerate it so it’s ready to go in the morning.

A LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
There are several things to help make your home a learning-friendly environment. Set up a designated homework area. This area should be away from any TVs and should be stocked with needed materials such as paper, pencils, rulers, etc. Also, decide on a time when the TV is turned off and time is dedicated to homework. This will minimize distractions and help get your student in a homework state of mind. Let your children see you reading and ask about the books they are reading for school. Showing interest in what they are learning will promote participation and an increased desire to learn.

GET EXCITED!
Your attitude can go a long way when trying to get your kids excited about going back to school. Discuss any hesitations or worries they have about the first day of school and assure them everyone is experiencing the same feelings about entering a new environment. Let your kids have a say in their clothing and school supplies. If glittered glue or a fun t-shirt gets them excited about going to school and showing off their duds to friends it’s worth what little extra cost may be involved.

Most of all, get involved. It is so important for your kids to feel that you are connected to what they are doing. Seeing that you care about their progress and activities can really encourage kids to do great things. So get ready and hold on tight—the bell is about to start ringing!

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