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Off to a Good Start

August 3, 2015

It’s hard to believe we are just a few weeks away to beginning a new school year. Hopefully you have had an opportunity this summer to experience some bonding and joy with your child. With the school year just around the corner, you and your child may be feeling a little anxious about what’s ahead.   Here are some simple tips to make sure you are off to a good start:

Talk about it.school_bus_186787

Get off to a good start by talking to your child about school. Talk to them about when school will start, where they will be going, how they will be getting there, who their teacher will be, and what they might do while at school.

For children who are pre-verbal, take a picture of a school bus, the school, playground, classroom and teacher (if you can). Show them the pictures while you talk about the upcoming school year.

Get on a schedule.

Another way to get off to a good start is to start the school routine before school actually starts. Have your child go to bed earlier and wake them at the time they will need to get up once school starts. If your child takes a lunch and/or snack to school, make it the night before so it’s ready to go the next day. By doing a mock schedule prior to the start of school, you will be able to determine if you need more or less time to get things ready in the morning.

Validate your child's feelings.kids_childhood_boys_231818

Acknowledge your child’s feelings about school. Naturally, we all are a little hesitant to change and are unsure of the unknown. If your child reveals they are anxious, worried, or nervous about school, ask them why. Be understanding and let them know their feelings are okay. Provide them with some positives. Maybe they have liked gym in the past, had a favorite therapist/teacher, or maybe they will get to see some friends they haven’t seen all summer. Validate their feelings and keep it positive to ensure your child is off to a good start.

By following these simple tips, you are sure to get your child off to a good start. Talk to your child about the upcoming changes that will occur with the new school year. Start your morning routine early to ensure you have ample time prior to the start of school. Finally, validate your child’s feelings towards school, and put a positive spin on it so they will see the bright side to a new school year.

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