Back-to-School Transitions: Tips for Parents

• Be sure your child is in good physical and mental health.
• Review all of the school information.
• Make a note of important school dates.
• Make copies of all your child’s health and emergency information.
• Buy school supplies early using the school’s checklist, if possible.
• Re-establish the bedtime and mealtime routines.
• Turn off the TV.
• Visit school with your child.
• Minimize clothes shopping problems by checking out the school’s dress code guidelines.
• Designate a location to keep backpacks, lunch boxes, as well as important papers.
• Prepare a simple menu for the first week to eliminate additional tension.

These tips should not only make for a smooth transition from a summer schedule to the classroom, but may also make a difference in stress levels at home. For more information, go to http://www.nasponline.org/resources/home_school/b2shandout.aspx