The end of the summer is coming, but that doesn't mean it has to be sad! The end of the summer is a great time for transition and to prepare your kids for the normal school routine. Make sure to end the summer on a great note!
Here is a list of things that you/your child should do before heading back to school!
1. Read
Reading can be a lot of fun for little kids. Not only will they learn something based on what the book is about (a lesson, a setting, an event, a holiday, etc.), but it gives them great exposure for when they'll be reading on their own. If your kids are just learning how to read, try having them read to you. It's just like storytime, but in reverse! If your kids are older, it's important that they read, not just now, but throughout the school year and summer so they don't forget their skills.
2. Routine
Getting adjusted to a new schedule can be difficult, and this year is no exception. Talk to your child(ren) about what they will be doing to prepare for the school day, whether it is in a physical school or it's virtual. Set times for when they should be doing certain tasks and go over it with them. Can they do it by themselves or do they need a parent to help them? Make sure to have lots of pictures to remind them of what they should be doing next. If you want, you can even have a practice day where they pretend to get ready for school. This will help adjust them to having to get ready so they won't be thrown off on the first day of school.
3. Math
The great thing about math is that it can be used in everyday applications, making it fun for kids. Try baking easy recipes with your kid(s) and having them figure out the number of ingredients, steps, or measurements needed. If that isn't for them, there are a plethora of online resources and games. If you are trying to have your older children memorize their facts, have them use flashcards. For young children, use their favorite toys to add and subtract. Such as legos, megablocks, cars, trucks, etc. Since math builds on each step, your children shouldn't forget what you learned in the previous year during the summer months.
4. Write Things Down
You can remember things better if you write them down. Even if you forget, you have what you wrote right there to remind you. You/your kid(s) can write down usernames, passwords, and other pieces of information for different online accounts they might use, as well as school work, goals for the week, chores, and other things that they have to do.
5. Make Home Your School
It can be difficult for kids to be motivated to work at home when that’s where they normally play. To solve this problem, try to set aside a special place for kids to do their schoolwork. Set rules for kids to follow during school, since they would also have rules if they were in physical school. Click here for a specific article about preparing for distance learning. For those that may be returning to class, here is an article for ideas on how to talk to your child about going to school during a pandemic.
6. Get Your Kids Comfortable With Masks
If your child(ren) is/are going into physical school, they will likely need to wear a mask. Explain why masks are important and have them practice wearing masks so they are used to them by the time school rolls around. Try to make masks more fun by letting them choose the design for the mask that they want to wear. Try to make masks seem as normal as possible so they aren’t confused or frustrated. Click here for a specific article about preparing your child for wearing a mask at school.
7. Have FUN!
Try to make the most of the last days of summer. If your family feels it is safe, you can go to a park. Do special things as a family. Also, your mindset can wear off on your children. Try to stay optimistic and get them excited for the start of school!
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