Back to School: How to Get Your Kids Ready for the Year Ahead

Summer has flown by and, seemingly out of nowhere, it’s time to prepare the kids to head back to school – a transition that can be tough on caregivers and kids, alike.

Here are some tips for a smooth and successful transition into the school routine.

Start adding back in pieces of your routine about a week or two in advance.

For example, adjust your child’s bedtime to be when he will be expected to sleep during the school year.

Practice and review any changes in routine from last school year.

If your child is meeting the bus in a new location, visit the bus stop with her a few times before the first day of school.

Review your child’s wellness status and include him or her in the conversation!

• Verify that your child is up-to-date on preventative treatment, such as vaccinations or annual checkups.
• Know what treatment your child will need for the upcoming year, like a sports physical.
• Make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician.

Talk to your child about expectations for the upcoming year.

• Make goals and strategies for success in school. Highlight how these differ from goals and strategies from last year.
• Help your child learn when and how to ask for help, in school and socially. Let them know that no one is perfect and that mistakes are natural opportunities for growth!

Become familiar with your child’s teacher(s) by meeting them in person or over email.  

• Share your child’s goals for the school year.
• Talk to teachers about how you prefer to be contacted. Make sure your contact information is up-to-date. It’s also good to include how often you want to get communication.

Print and post your child’s school and district calendars to stay aware of important events.

• Consider adding certain dates or events to your personal calendar.
• Consider using the calendar to monitor and track your student’s mood and emotional changes. For instance, you may notice that your child has increased anxiety at the end of a semester.

Looking for a doctor?

• To schedule an appointment at a Primary Care Center, call (614) 722-6200. Visit NationwideChildrens.org/Primary-Care-Centers for locations and additional information.
• Call (614) 355-2590 to schedule an appointment at one of our School-Based Health Centers. Visit NationwideChildrens.org/Care-Connection for locations and additional information.