It can be tough for children and teens to transition their daily habits back to fit into the school schedule after the late nights and activities of the Summer Holidays, and it can be even harder for parents to implement a routine for school. In addition, starting a whole new journey with new classmates, teachers, and a whole new environment can be overwhelming and can cause back to school nerves. Here are some essential tips to help you get started on this school year.

• Talk about feelings, how does your child feel about returning back to school? Excited? Nervous? Why?
  
• Model positive language around school as it encourages positive thinking around school, meeting friends, and working on their education. You are your child’s most important role model, being empathetic can teach your child kindness and recognize how to treat others.
  
• Build a strong foundation of open communication that allows your children to open up about anything they might be going through. Each school year comes with its own challenges, trusting you can be a part of the problem solving process.
  
• Begin active communication with teachers and the school – this can allow you to understand how your child is developing and how you can support them.

• Set a bedtime routine so you and your child can get good rest for the next day, and create a wake up routine so you have enough time to get ready and get to school without the stress of rushing.
  
• Prepare the night before so you have everything ready to leave in the morning.
  
• Make a calendar to help you keep track of events such as sports, back to school nights, early dismissals and other commitments.

Most importantly, enjoy it. Learning can be fun and each school year is an accomplishment as well as an opportunity to know what to expect or change for the next year.