Elementary education is important as it sets the educational foundation upon which children grow. It has specific roles to play, such as enabling them to learn reading, writing, arithmetic and creativity, as well as character development, critical thinking, logical judgments, communication and socialization skills.
Preparing your child for elementary school can be a tricky task, especially if it’s your first time. They have been home for a while and have probably adopted a different routine, enjoyed more screen time and played more. Getting them ready to go back to school can be a breeze if you adopt the following tips.
1. Prep them and establish routines
It’s likely that they’ve become accustomed to not having to wake up at an early hour or shoulder specific obligations. Now is the time for things to change. It won’t be easy to start a new school routine, so start preparing them a few weeks ahead of time. A regular routine is essential for children’s development.
2. Get them involved
Children who participate in back-to-school activities such as shopping for school supplies, selecting and sorting new clothes and shopping for back-to-school sneakers are more likely to be excited about going to school, which lessens their anxiety. Getting them involved in activities will not only boost their confidence, but will also help prepare them for the responsibilities that come with primary school.
3. Get the right gear
Getting the right back-to-school gear can be the difference between your child being excited about elementary school or not. Items such as back to school clothes, shoes and backpacks can inspire confidence in your child and get them looking forward to going to class. This is why purchasing high-quality back-to-school supplies is critical. For instance, backpacks are quite significant; too heavy or poorly worn backpacks can cause muscle strain, headaches and neck pain. Choose a backpack that has wide, padded straps to support your child’s shoulders and is made of durable, lightweight fabric.ย
4. Visit the school and its website
When talking about the school day with your child, knowing the actual layout of the school building and grounds might help you connect. Knowing where the main office, school nurse, cafeteria, gym, athletic fields, playgrounds, auditorium and special classes are located is important.
5. Have conversations about back-to-school jitters
Assist your youngster by informing them that being nervous is completely natural. Allow them to communicate their anxieties without invalidating them. Sharing stories of your own experiences can be a big help in helping them feel better.
6. Have fun
If you make a big deal out of the first day of school, your kids will perceive it as a fun change. Try throwing a back-to-school party with cake, balloons, and educational gifts the day before school starts. Remember to take a picture of them on the front step in their first-day-of-school attire.
A big part of your kid’s character forms over their time in elementary school, so it is important to get them started with the right attitude. And the most important tip of all is to stay involved even as they slowly develop their own personality and become their own person. Share their joys, fears and anxieties. They’ll love you for it.
