Back-To-School Preparations

Summer is flying by! I haven’t blogged in a while, but as we all start getting back into our routines and prepare for school to resume, I’m diving back into mine too! Today, I’m including five tips for parents to use when preparing their adolescents to return to school:

1. Revisit Schedules: Remember those lazy summer mornings? Gradually start shifting bedtimes and wake-up times a little earlier each day. Try moving sleep and wake times by 15-minute increments. Also, write out their schedule to help your teen visualize the upcoming changes to their routine.

2. Refresh the Study Space: Take some time together to organize, redecorate, or relocate their study area, making it a comfortable and enjoyable spot for homework and reading.

3. Restock the Snack Bins: Continue to offer healthy snacks and balanced meals into their shifting routine, so they’re fueled and ready for busy school days. Ask them to help you restock the pantry, so snacks are ready to grab. Food is their love language!

4. Be Available (& Approachable): Many teens aren't excited about back-to-school talks. Let them know when you're available to help, especially with tasks like class selection. Offer support by asking, "How can I help?" Avoid making decisions for them or pushing conversations when they're not ready. Get ice cream afterward to keep things positive.

5. Reflect on Summer Wins: Take a moment to review all the fun memories from the summer. Highlighting these positive memories can help your teen feel confident as they step back into a new school year.

6. Identify New Goals Together: Talk with your teen about what they hope to achieve this school year, whether it's academic goals, extracurriculars, or personal or relational growth.

Being proactive with early intervention is key to setting your teen up for a successful and mentally healthy school year.