Back-to-school? You may be thinking, “But it’s only July!” Yet if you want to give your children the best chance for a successful school year, preparation really begins long before the first day of class. Summer has a way of speeding by, and before you know it, it’s time to dust off the backpacks and set those alarm clocks. The best preparation for a new school year is a gradual process, not a last-minute scramble. By starting a few simple routines now, you can help your child transition from summer mode to school mode while reducing stress for the entire family.
Here’s an action plan with practical steps parents can take throughout the summer, just before school starts, during the first week, and throughout the school year.
This summer
- Take a learning inventory. Ask your children what they enjoyed most about the past school year and what they’d like to learn more about in the coming year.
- Check for assignments. Find out early whether they have required reading, projects, or other assignments.
- Keep learning in the forefront. Plan activities that build on your child’s interests while strengthening skills they’ll use in school. Museums, libraries, nature walks, cooking, travel, and even everyday errands all offer opportunities to learn.
Two weeks before school starts
- Reset sleep schedules. Start moving bedtimes and wake-up times back 15-20 minutes each day a week or two before school begins.
- Create routines. Practice morning and evening routines so the first day doesn’t feel rushed.
- Organize together. Designate a place for backpacks, shoes, lunch boxes, chargers, and homework.
- Plan safe routes to and from school. Check them out in advance. If it’s a new route or bus-stop, accompany young kids the first few times.
- Review the family calendar. Mark the first day of school, open houses, sports, activities, and important dates so there are fewer surprises.
- Talk about expectations. Discuss hopes, worries, and goals for the new year. Listen more than you talk.
The first week
- Keep mornings calm. Pack lunches, lay out clothes, and prepare backpacks the night before.
- Focus on connection. Instead of asking, “How was school?” try: What made you smile today? What surprised you? What was the hardest part? These questions often lead to better conversations.
- Don’t overschedule. It’s tempting to jump right into sports and activities, but leave time for your child to adjust.
Throughout the year
- Build independence. Encourage children to solve age-appropriate problems before stepping in.
- Partner with teachers. Reach out early if concerns arise. Small issues are often easier to address before they become larger ones.
- Celebrate progress. Praise effort, persistence, kindness, responsibility, and improvement, not just grades.
- Protect family time. Regular meals together, even a few each week, provide opportunities to connect, reduce stress, and notice when your child may need extra support.
When to seek help
Even with careful planning, every school year brings new challenges. It’s normal for children to experience some stress as they adjust to new teachers, classmates, routines, and academic expectations. Help them work through everyday frustrations while staying alert for signs that something more serious may be going on. If concerns persist, reach out to teachers, school counselors, your pediatrician, or other trusted professionals. Such signs might include:
- Sudden reluctance to go to school
- Changes in mood or sleep
- Frequent stomachaches or headaches
- Falling grades
- Withdrawal from friends or activities
How your EAP can help
Finally, remember that parents need support, too. If the stress of a new school year begins affecting your family, your EAP offers confidential counseling, as well as resources for parenting concerns, family communication, stress management, and work-life balance.
ESI EAP also offers Child Care Locators that can help you find everything from Day Care and child transportation services to after school programs and tutoring. Simply login to www.theEAP.com and click on “Locators.”
Additional Resources
- ‘Back to School’ Means Anytime from Late July to after Labor Day
- Back to School Safety Checklist – the National Safety Council
- What Teachers Wish Parents Would Do To Prepare Kids For The School Year
- Teacher Tips for Parents Preparing to Send Kids Back to School
- Back-to-School Tips for Families – HealthyChildren.org