Overcoming the 'post-vacation slump' in your children's school routine

As the end of summer approaches, many families are gearing up for the new school year. Here are some ways to make the transition easier and more enjoyable for both children and parents.

Embrace Fun Activities

Doing something fun for the end of summer can be a great way to spend time together and say goodbye to the summer break. Activities such as going back-to-school shopping together or planning a first day of school outfit can make the process more fun and help children feel ready for the year ahead.

Explore Books for Children

Reading books can be a productive and enjoyable activity for children during the summer break, and there are several books that can help children prepare for the new school year. For example, "Time for School, Mouse!" is a text designed specifically for pre-schoolers and introduces them to the wonderful world of school.

"Lola Goes to School (Lola Reads)" captures Lola's school day experiences and her warm reunion with her mom, making it a comforting and cheerful read for preschoolers and kindergarteners. "Llama Llama Back to School" by Anna Dewdney can help alleviate anxiety about the end of summer and the first day back at school.

"Butterflies on the First Day of School" by Annie Silvestro helps children make sense of first-day jitters, while "Mae's First Day of School: A Picture Book" by Kate Berube can help children starting preschool or kindergarten face their fears. The story includes tear-out lunchbox notes to give children a little extra confidence.

Encourage After-School Activities

Encouraging children to explore and pick after-school activities can help them have fun and make new friends. Whether it's sports, arts, or music, finding an activity that interests your child can help them look forward to the new school year.

Take Time to Check In

Taking time to check in with children about their feelings heading into the new school year can help them open up and feel more comfortable. Hosting a playdate can help children who are feeling nervous about the new school year reconnect with familiar friends. A thoughtful gesture such as encouraging younger children to make a picture or write a welcome note to their new teacher can be a great way to show their excitement for the new school year.

Establish a Routine

Encouraging children to start getting back to their school-year routine can help make the transition less difficult. This can include setting a bedtime, waking up early, and having a healthy breakfast. By establishing a routine, children can feel more prepared and less anxious about the new school year.

Overall, preparing for the new school year can be an exciting time for both children and parents. By embracing fun activities, exploring books, encouraging after-school activities, checking in with children, and establishing a routine, families can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.