With school starting soon, even experienced students may find it hard to adjust to a new routine. In the coming weeks, there are things one can do to help ease the transition back to school.
“Getting ready for school is about more than just writing your name on your notebooks,” an article on learnwellservices.com said. “It’s about laying the groundwork for a successful and balanced year, both academically and socially. By organizing your materials, setting routines and strengthening relationships, you give yourself the tools to thrive.”
One of the most visible challenges with a new routine is adjusting to an earlier sleep schedule. Establishing a schedule a few days to weeks before school starts will help students be less tired the first week of school. If an abrupt schedule change feels overwhelming, try moving bed and wake up back 15 to 20 minutes every day until reaching school times.
“Children who are sleep deprived are more likely to struggle with irritability, anxiety, behavioral concerns and difficulty concentrating in the classroom,” pediatrician Kristen Cook said in a Psychology Today article. “Parents can improve sleep hygiene by establishing a predictable bedtime routine, limiting screens during the hour before bed and encouraging children to spend time outside in the morning.”
If possible, set a regular morning, bedtime and study routine. Laying out clothes, planning lunches and charging devices the night before can help reduce stress in the morning. If on a new campus, find the best way to get to each class before school starts, such as on a back-toschool night.
“A regular study routine can help train your brain to settle into work mode more quickly,” LearnWell said, “Decide on blocks of time you’ll dedicate to homework or reviewing notes each day and stick to it. For example, you might do one-hour study sessions after dinner or review material for 20 minutes before heading to bed.”
When it comes to supplies, many students already have what they need at home. Look through old supplies to find what is still useful, organize those and make a shopping list for the rest. Some schools provide supply lists that can be helpful.
Another common stressor around the beginning of school is the social factor. Reconnecting with old friends and meeting teachers before, or early in the year can help provide a support system. Also be open to opportunities to make new friends through clubs, a new lunch group or different classes.
“Take the time to greet your teachers early, ideally within the first week,” LearnWell said. “A simple introduction, like, ‘Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I’m excited about this class,’ can go a long way. Teachers are not only there to educate you, but they can also be great resources if you’re struggling or need advice.”
Lastly, be sure to communicate and try not to overschedule. Some anxiety is normal, but good communication between students, parents and others can help everyone feel more confident. For those who tend to overschedule, remember that “no” is a complete sentence which can be used to protect mental health.
“While sports, music and clubs offer wonderful opportunities, verscheduling can leave children chronically tired and emotionally overwhelmed,” Cook said. “Children need unstructured time to relax, play, connect with family and simply recover from the demands of the school day.
Protecting adequate sleep, regular family meetings and downtime is just as important as building an impressive résumé.”