For parents, late July, August, and early September represent more than summer ending, cooler weather, and fall foliage. It's time to think about returning to school and trying to enjoy the last few weeks of summer. Prepare your child, regardless of whether they are in Kindergarten or a senior in high school; it's time to make moving from summer fun to school days easier.
Kindergarten -5th Grade For Foster Children
- Children should start to go to bed at the time they will when school begins starting a week before school starts. Set the alarm, have them wake up, and begin their day like their school schedule. My kids get angry with me because I have work for them to do. A couple of days, it is getting their clothes ready; the next is math and reading or organizing their room and studying area. They also end the night by going to bed on time and handing over electronics. My teenager is usually furious that his last week of freedom is being cut short, but it helps so much when the first day of school “pops up.” After a summer of staying up late and sleeping in late, they will need their body to adjust back to a school schedule.
- Buy the school supplies early; that way, you get everything on the list and in the style they like. The new school year will start with new supplies, cool gear, and everything with labels. Also, having a second set of supplies at home will help if they lose or forget an item at school and need it at homework time. Nothing is worse than having to run around during homework time because of the missing basics.
Walk with your kindergartener to school or the bus stop two or three days before school begins. Get them acquainted with their routine and what they will do on their first day. If your child is anxious, inquire with the school about a curriculum night or a jump start program that lets them visit their new classroom before school starts.
Volunteer, make yourself known and be a presence at the school. For example, I volunteer at the elementary school, reading stories to the second-grade class. Knowing where your children spend a lot of their day is important. Many Parent Teacher Associations have meetings in the evening, so more parents can attend. Some activities need volunteers that do not involve daytime hours.
