The end of summer marks the beginning of a new school year—a time of excitement, change, and challenges for both children and parents alike. As you gear up to help your children and students dive into their studies and engage in various activities, it’s important to start the year on the right foot. Here are 23 tips to help support our youth for a successful start to the 2023-2024 academic year.
- Reestablish Routines || Gradually adjust bedtime and wake-up schedules to match the school routine a couple of weeks before school starts. This will ease the transition from summer break.
- Discuss Expectations || Have an open conversation with your child about their hopes, goals, and concerns for the upcoming school year. Set realistic expectations together.
- Create a Dedicated Study Space || Prepare a quiet, well-lit area at home for homework and studying. A consistent study environment enhances focus and productivity.
- Organize Supplies || Stock up on school supplies early to avoid the last-minute rush. Having everything ready minimizes stress on the first day.
- Update Contacts || Ensure the school has your current contact information. Inform them about any changes in emergency contacts or medical information.
- Practice the Route || If your child is starting at a new school, take a practice walk or drive to the school to familiarize them with the route.
- Arrive Early || Arriving a bit early on the first day allows your child to settle in, meet classmates, and feel more comfortable.
- Stay Positive || Maintain a positive attitude about the new school year. Your enthusiasm can help alleviate any first-day jitters your child might have.
- Meet the Teachers and Afterschool Staff || Attend meet-the-teacher events or parent-teacher conferences and touch base with your child’s before and after school program leader. Building a rapport with teachers and youth support staff encourages open communication throughout the year.
- Connect with Other Parents || Networking with fellow parents can provide valuable insights and support throughout the school year.
- Set Goals || Help your child set realistic academic goals for the year. This fosters a sense of purpose and motivation to succeed.
- Encourage Reading || Cultivate a love for reading by providing a variety of books that match your child’s interests and reading level.
- Monitor Homework || Establish a routine for checking your child’s homework and helping when needed.
- Limit Screen Time || Set boundaries on screen time during the school week. This encourages better focus on academics and other extracurricular activities.
- Open Communication || Maintain open lines of communication with your child. Create an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their concerns and experiences.
- Acknowledge Feelings || Validate your child’s emotions about returning to school. It’s normal for them to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety.
- Practice Self-Care Together || Teach your child the importance of self-care, including getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals, and engaging in physical activities.
- Encourage Friendships || Help your child develop social skills and make friends by arranging playdates or encouraging participation in clubs and activities.
- Teach Conflict Resolution || Equip your child with the skills to resolve conflicts in a healthy and respectful manner.
- Stay Involved || Attend school events, volunteer opportunities, and parent-teacher association meetings to stay engaged in your child’s school life.
- Flexibility is Key || Be prepared for changes and adjustments. School years are filled with surprises, so maintaining a flexible mindset is essential.
- Celebrate Achievements || Recognize and celebrate your child’s accomplishments, whether big or small. Positive reinforcement boosts their confidence and self-esteem.
- Stay Patient || Understand that adapting to a new school year might take time. Stay patient and supportive as your child navigates new experiences and challenges.
As a parent, you have the power to shape your child’s perception of school and their overall learning experience. These 23 tips can help ensure a successful, enjoyable, and enriching school year for your child, and at AYS, we are also here to help support the practices you put into place so that all children in our programs feel safe, engaged, and loved. Together, our involvement and support are the cornerstones of their journey to academic and personal growth.
