HealthyChildren.org has plenty of good ideas that can help your child get used to the transition from summer vacation and into the brand new school year. Here are some helpful ways to help your child look forward to going to school.
Develop a healthy sleep routine Help your child adjust to earlier bedtimes. Set a consistent bedtime for your child and stick with it every night. Getting enough sleep is critical for kids to stay healthy and be successful in school. Not getting enough sleep is linked with lower academic achievement, as well as higher rates of absenteeism and tardiness.
Create a bedtime routine that is consistent to help your child settle down and fall asleep. For example, a calming pre-bedtime routine may involve a bath or shower, reading with them, tucking them in and saying goodnight.
Have your child turn off electronic devices well before bedtime Try to have the home as quiet and calm as possible when younger children are trying to fall asleep.
Provide health food options during the day
Children who eat a nutritious breakfast function better. They do better in school, and have better concentration and more energy. Some schools provide breakfast for children; if yours does not, make sure they eat a breakfast that contains some protein. If your child does not have time to eat, send them to school with a grab and go snack like a granola bar.
Many children qualify for free or reduced price food at school, including breakfast. The forms for these services can be completed at the school office. Hunger will affect a child’s performance in class.
Many school districts have plans which allow you to pay for meals through an online account. Your child can get a card to “swipe” at the register. This is a convenient way to handle school meal accounts.
Look into what is offered inside and outside of the cafeteria, including vending machines, a la carte, school stores, snack carts and fundraisers held during the school day. They should stock healthy choices such as fresh fruit, low-fat dairy products and water. Learn about your child’s school wellness policy and get involved in school groups to put it into effect. Also, consider nutrition if your child will be bringing food to eat during school.
Choose healthier beverage options such as water to send in your child’s lunch. Each 12-ounce soft drink contains approximately 10 teaspoons of sugar and 150 calories. Drinking just one can of soda a day increases a child’s risk of obesity by 60%.
Support good homework & study habits
Some children need extra help organizing their homework. Checklists, timers, and parental supervision can help overcome homework problems.
Create an environment that is homework-friendly starting at a young age. Children need a consistent workspace in their bedroom or another part of the home that is quiet, without distractions, and promotes study.
Schedule ample time for homework build this time into choices about participating in after school activities.
Establish a household rule that the TV and other electronic distractions stay off during the homework time. Supervise computer and Internet use.
If you believe your child would benefit from special education services, submit a request to your school for an Individualized Education Program evaluation. Your pediatrician can help draft a letter of this request.
Consider Backpack Safety
Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.
Organize your child’s backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weight more than than 10% to 20% of your child’s body weight. Go through the pack with your child weekly, and remove unneeded items to keep it light.
Remind your child to always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one’s shoulder can strain muscles. Adjust the pack so that the bottom sits at the child’s waist.