The First Day of School: 5 Helpful Tips For Preparing Your Child

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A toddler sitting next to a My First Day of School board

I’ve always loved the first day of school, new outfits, new shoes, new schedules, and most importantly, new school supplies! For as long as I can remember, I’ve always LOVED buying new school supplies. Don’t ask me why, but I just do. And now in just the blink of an eye summer break will come to an end. I can’t believe in just about a week our kiddos will be experiencing another new school year, or maybe even their first school year! School supply and uniform shopping are officially in full effect in my household. With that being said, what can we do to help our children prepare for school? Don’t worry Momma, I have some helpful tips you can try at home.

1. Start working on a sleep schedule.

Summer typically means later bedtimes and/or sleeping in. This can disrupt your child’s sleep schedule when the school year is here. Getting back into a bedtime routine before the first day of school can make that first-morning run just a bit smoother. Practicing a week before school by setting a bedtime is a helpful way to put this practice into action. You can also practice in advance and set bedtime 15 min earlier each day until you reach your child’s desired bedtime. A rested child is a happy child and that equals a very happy momma! Laying out your child’s clothes can also be incorporated into your bedtime routine.

2. Practice your morning routine.

A new bedtime routine also entails a new morning routine. A great tip is to practice the morning routine maybe 2-3 days prior. Set your alarm as well as your child’s and start your morning just how you would on the first day. Even have an earlier breakfast with your child.

A little girl poses for a picture on the first day of school

3. Set expectations for the upcoming year.

Whether it’s your child’s first day ever or their last, the first day of school can always cause a bit of jitters. Talking to your child days prior on what to expect for the upcoming year usually helps calm their nerves. Incorporate what they can expect this year. If it’s your child’s first day ever, you can read books with your child about starting school. This is a good way to ease them into what to expect.

4. Tour the school/meet their new teacher.

Going to a new school can also add extra stress to your child. This can look different for each child. Some may be transitioning from elementary to middle school, middle school to high school, or maybe even moving to a new town. Visiting the school can help your child prepare. They can go in prepared and already know where the cafeteria or different areas are. If possible, take your child to teacher orientation so they can feel more comfortable and know what to expect.

A middle schooler ready for the first day of 7th grade

5. Make the morning of the first day special.

Don’t forget to make the first day extra special. For example, maybe a special themed breakfast or cute notes in your child’s lunch box to keep them motivated and excited throughout the day. Prepare a cute sign for your child and take pics to send to family and friends or to post on social media.

I hope these few tips are helpful to make the first day of school a little easier for not only your child but for you as well. I can’t wait to see all the cute first day posts!