Summer is coming to a close, which means soon you’ll be wrangling your bundles of joy into the school-year routine. This transition from summer fun to back-to-school can be difficult for some kids but don’t worry—with the right strategies, you can help your child start the school year with enthusiasm and excitement.
At Brains & Motion, we want to share eight tips to keep your kids engaged and ready to learn as they transition out of summer break.
1. Set a Routine ASAP!
Getting your child back into a school routine doesn’t have to be a challenge. Instead of diving in headfirst, try easing them a few weeks before the first day. Setting regular bedtimes and wake-up times that match the school schedule—because we all know how much easier mornings are when everyone’s well-rested. After a summer of late nights and lazy mornings, this slight adjustment can make those early school mornings much smoother.
2. Get Them Excited To Learn Again!
Before the school bell rings, work to spark their curiosity with fun and engaging activities that blend learning with play. Educational games that tie into upcoming subjects, like spelling races or math scavenger hunts, will reinforce learning objectives and burn off some of that extra energy.
Keep summer fun alive by mixing some learning with your everyday activities. Plan a visit to a museum or cook together to practice measurements and fractions. Outdoor science experiments and family reading time are fantastic ways to keep their minds active while enjoying the last days of summer. These activities can reignite their passion for learning, making the transition back to school smoother and more enjoyable.
3. Work With Technology Mindfully
Helping your kids get used to working with technology will prepare them for classroom learning, as many elementary and middle school classrooms utilize Chromebooks and tablets to facilitate learning. Introduce your child to educational apps, online resources, and interactive learning platforms that make education fun and engaging.
However, it’s essential to be aware of screen time to ensure that your child is not overwhelmed by too much tech and can enjoy other forms of learning as well. Limiting screen time in the evenings, especially when school starts back up, can help them wind down. Consider swapping out screens for a book or a relaxing bath before bed.
4. Practice Setting Goals
Setting personal goals for your child can help them transition back into schoolday routines. For example, introduce small daily tasks like packing a snack or laying out clothes for the next day. These types of tasks not only build routines for your child but also get them used to the task-oriented structure of the classroom.
As a parent, you can guide them in setting realistic goals and celebrating their progress. Conduct a trial run of the morning routine and pack the backpack together the night before. Involving your child in these preparations gives them a sense of responsibility and control, helping to set a positive tone for the year ahead.
5. Celebrate Small Wins
Every little win deserves a celebration. Whether your child nails a quiz, finishes homework independently, or progresses in a tricky subject, it’s essential to recognize these moments. Celebrating these small victories keeps your child motivated and boosts their confidence and resilience.
When you cheer them on and acknowledge their efforts, you show them their hard work is appreciated. This positive reinforcement helps them stay enthusiastic and ready to tackle new challenges. As the school year begins, these celebrations can build their excitement and self-belief, making them more eager to face whatever comes next.
6. Connect With Teachers
Building a solid relationship with your child's teacher right from the start can make a huge difference in how your child feels about school. Attend back-to-school events, introduce yourself to the teacher, and keep those lines of communication open. Meeting their teacher beforehand can also ease their nerves and help them feel more secure.
When your child sees a supportive team of adults working together for their success, it can boost their confidence and enthusiasm for school. Creating this connection helps your child feel safer and more comfortable and keeps you informed about their experience and progress throughout the year.
7. Talk To Your Kids!
Starting a new school year can be emotionally challenging, especially for young kids who might be anxious about new routines or meeting new people. Open and honest conversations about these changes can ease their nerves and help your child feel supported. Highlight the positive aspects of school—like fun activities, seeing friends, and learning new things—to turn any apprehension into excitement.
Check-in regularly about their school day, homework, and any worries they might have. This will continue to build your connection and keep you in the loop about what your child is experiencing. Acknowledge their feelings, provide reassurance, and teach them simple coping strategies like deep breathing or positive self-talk. This way, they’ll feel more prepared and resilient as they navigate their new school year.
8. Consider Extended Day Care
Kids may struggle with the shift from relaxed days to structured routines. After-school programs bridge this gap by providing a consistent structure that mirrors the school day and smoother the transition to classroom routines. These programs serve as a crucial transition between school and home life, providing more structure and consistency.
BAM! Can Help!
Brains & Motion Education offers a predictable routine that helps children adjust to their new school schedules. This structured approach helps students develop organizational skills and time management, making the back-to-school transition less daunting.
When we engage students in fun and educational activities, such as arts enrichment, coding projects, and STEM exploration, we help maintain their learning momentum in a relaxed environment. After-school offerings also provide ample opportunities for social interaction. Through collaborative projects and group activities, students can make new friends and strengthen existing relationships, which helps build confidence and ease anxieties about returning to school.
BAM! ensures that your child’s after-school time is as rewarding as enjoyable. We offer After School Enrichment Courses and Before- & After-School Care, so find a school near you! Don’t miss this opportunity to support your child's growth and make their school year shine!