Easing the transition from Summer Break to a New School Year

Much to the disappointment of many children, summer vacation doesn't last forever. As the days of summer dwindle, how can parents help their children prepare to head back to school? It's easier than you think - follow these proven tips to ready your child for a brand new year:

Reestablish a routine. While enjoying the freedom of summertime, perhaps your family has been relaxed about a set dinner and bed time these past months. Two or three weeks before the first day of school, start having your child go to bed a little earlier each night and get up at around the same time he or she would for school. Minimize television time in the evenings as you would on a typical school night.

Get organized. Staying organized is the key to children's school success, so help your child establish a system for storing to-be-completed, graded and to-be-handed-in assignments (such as a pocket folder) and supply him or her with a small notebook for recording homework and other responsibilities. Also, have your child neaten his or her desk or work area, and be sure he or she has everything necessary to keep it well-organized.

Set goals. Goal-setting is a great way for your child to reflect on past successes or challenges and apply those lessons in the coming year. Have your child write down several things he or she would like to accomplish this year and how he or she plans to achieve these goals. To encourage work ethic and recognize progress, set achievement milestones and corresponding rewards (such as a trip for ice cream or to the movies).

Make it fun! Every adult knows the emotions of going back to work after a relaxing and fun vacation, so try to empathize with how your child is feeling, but encourage him or her to think of the bright side. A new year means new friends, challenges and opportunities. Remind your child of a fun school memory from last year, a friend he or she will see again or something else that might lift his or her mood.

Parents can help their children get off to a great start this school year by taking a few small preparatory steps. For more information on how Huntington can help your child succeed in school, call 1-800-CAN-LEARN today or learn more about our tutoring programs.