Back to school tips from Buggy Beat

Making the First Day Easier

• Many children become nervous about new situations, including changing to a new school, classroom or teacher. If your child seems nervous, it can be helpful to rehearse entry into the new situation. Take them to visit the new school or classroom before the first day at school. Remind them that there are probably a lot of students who are uneasy about the first day of school. Teachers know that students are nervous and will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible.
• Point out the positive aspects of starting school to create positive anticipation about the first day of class. They will see old friends and meet new ones. Talk with them about positive experiences they may have had in the past at school or with other groups of children.
• Find another child who lives nearby with whom your child can walk to school or ride on the bus.
• If you feel it is needed, drive your child (or walk with them) to school and pick them up on the first day, and get there early on the first day to cut down on unnecessary stress.
• Be prepared with school bags/ lunch bags/ pens/ clothing so that the first day is a breeze!

Eating During the School Day

• Studies show that 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.
• Most schools regularly send schedules of cafeteria menus home and/or have them posted on the school’s website. With this advance information, you can plan on packing lunch on the days when the main course is one your child prefers not to eat.
• Each soft drink contains approximately 10 teaspoons of sugar and 150 calories. Drinking just one can of pop a day increases a child’s risk of obesity by 60%. Choose healthier options and stick to water where possible.

Develop a Sleep Routine

• Getting enough sleep is critical for a child to be successful in school. Children who do not get enough sleep have difficulty concentrating and learning as well as they can.
• Set a consistent bedtime for your child and stick with it every night. Having a bedtime routine that is consistent will help your child settle down and fall asleep. Components of a calming pre-bedtime routine may involve a bath/shower, reading with them, and tucking them in and saying good-night to them.
• 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.

Are you all set?