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Tips for getting back to school
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Published: August 21, 2009
For most kids, it seems that it was just yesterday that the last bell dismissed them from class for three lazy months of summer vacation. It's hard to believe how fast three months have flown by, and most students go back to school in less than a week. Here are some tips to help you or your child to get back in the swing of the school year:
• School Supplies- Most teachers allow you a week or so to purchase all your needed school supplies, but it is generally a better idea to get a head start on your shopping. That way you don't have to worry about buying materials with the stress of homework and new classes. It will also be easier to organize from the very beginning of the year if you already have plenty of folders and binders. For younger students, Wal-Mart often has supply lists for local schools near the front of the store.
• Open House- Make a point for both the parent and student to attend Open House, especially if they will be attending a new school. Check on your child's report card or school newsletter for the date. It is usually scheduled a few days prior to the start of the year. This way, the student will be familiar with all class locations and their teachers. The parents also have the opportunity to meet teachers as well as pick up information about sports or extracurricular activities offered.
• Sleeping routine- Practice going to sleep earlier and getting up earlier a few days before the start of school. This will substantially ease the one of the hardest transitions of waking up earlier.
• Dress code- Make sure you are familiar with the school's dress code before the first day. You don't want to be sent home for trying to look nice in a cute outfit that doesn't comply with the dress code!
• Bus routes- If the student isn't old enough to drive, make sure they know their bus stop location, pick up time, and bus number. Always arrive 10-15 minutes before the scheduled stop time since the times will vary the first week or so. Always accompany your child to the stop on the first few days before they are comfortable going alone. If you haven't received bus information from the school, check with them.
• Parking passes- If the student is old enough to drive, then many schools will issue parking passes. Often times, students are required to pay for these and pick them up prior to the first day. Make sure you are familiar with the policy to avoid any unnecessary tickets.
• Scheduling- Did the student get assigned to all the classes they signed up for? Carefully make sure that they are placed in the correct ones. If they signed up for AP English, double check this on their schedule. If not, check on your school's schedule changing policy or email their guidance counselor.
• After school- It is important that the parent knows where their child will be after school. Younger children should know what bus to get on or where to report for after school care. Older children should know that it is vital to aware their parents of where they are, whether it is practice or a friend's house.
• Lunch- A good idea is to pack your lunch at least the first few days into the year. That way long lines can be avoided and you have more time to find a table to sit at with your friends. Besides, packing a lunch means more time to catch up with friends!
With these tips, hopefully the transition between lazy summer days and busy school days will be eased for both the parent and student. Have a great year!
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