The 2009-2010 school year is here!
Your kindergartener is dealing with separation anxiety; your middle-schooler is dealing with adjusting to a six-period class schedule, while your high school freshman is feeling overwhelmed with a new and more challenging course load.
With so many changes happening, try these ideas for helping to make the transition from summer vacation to back in school smoother.
“Early to Bed, Early to Rise” – Many parents allow later bedtimes during the summer, which is normal because most kids will not have an early morning engagement and summer is often more relaxed for most families. Now is the time to readjust the summer routine of staying up late.
According to sleepforkids.org, the recommended hours of sleep for ages 5-12 are 10 to 11 hours a night and kidshealth.org recommends 8 1/2 to 9 hours of sleep for teens. So, make sure your kids are getting enough sleep so they can be alert in class and cope better with stress.
“Have the Fashion Show the Night Before” – If your child is anything like me when I was in school, they will try on 10 outfits before finding the right one to wear to school, which caused a lot of chaos in the morning. I made a mess with clothes all over the place and sometimes ran late, barely making it to the bus stop on-time. To avoid all the commotion, make sure your child picks out their outfit the night before or at least narrow down his/her top three ensembles.
“Check Your Local Weather Forecast” – Knowing that the weather has in store for you the next day will help with any outfit dilemmas and also prepare you for what to expect after leaving the house. You will know if an umbrella is needed or if there’s a possibility of school delays due to snow.
“But, I’m going to miss you” – This tip is geared toward children just staring kindergarten. Many parents with children going to school for the first time have heard their child say “I don’t want to go because they will miss you.” What children are really expressing is their apprehension about the change happening. Parents, reassure your child that you will miss them too, but let them know you will see them soon. You may experience a period of difficult mornings and separations. The key is to stay consistent, calm, and keep a positive attitude.
Happy Parenting,
Genova Hooks
Genova Hooks is a Renton native, graduating from Renton High School in 2002. Genova is a Youth Development and Parent Specialist at Renton Area Youth and Family Services for the Rites of Passage program. She has experience working with at-risk, low-income, ethnically diverse youth by helping them reach their personal and academic goals.
