Beyond the Backpack: School Prep for Parents

For students, the freedom of summer feels too valuable to let go, yet the reality soon sets in that there is an inevitable ending to even the longest summer break. Parents must be at the forefront of this yearly adaptation, encouraging preparation for the coming months by readjusting to schedules, routines, and an academic mindset. Getting back into the swing of things can be a lot for our students, but we often discount the effects on the parents facilitating the return to school. Whether it's getting acclimated into preschool or making the leap into senior year, parents are preparing their young ones for success while also doing their best to fulfill their own responsibilities, and this can wear on even the most experienced caregivers. 

Getting Kids Prepared

Start talking about the return weeks before the start date. You may receive eyerolls, painful groans, or in some cases genuine excitement, but regardless of the reaction, it is important to begin a dialog. Mental preparation is valuable to students, especially younger ones, that need time to let things sink in. 

Similarly, parents should start preparing themselves. Start looking early into resources from the school for things like fees, dress code, signups and deadlines, or general information you may like to know. While some students are good at keeping their parents informed, it’s ultimately the guardian’s responsibility to stay up to date on important information. 

Readjusting to Schedules

Routines aren’t only beneficial for students going back to school, they help to keep the entire household organized and primed for the return to structured weeks. Try to get your young ones involved in planning what these routines look like for everyone at home. Things like planning chores, mealtimes, outside activities, and various responsibilities. Keeping our student’s input in mind when making these plans allows them to feel like they have some say in their routines and you may feel less resistance as a result. One of the more important factors to consider is a sleep schedule, as this affects all aspects of a productive day.

Always remember that these routines should apply to parents just as much as the children. Staying structured not only allows parents to keep their responsibilities in check more effectively, but you are leading by example for young ones to learn from. It may not seem like they notice or appreciate this behavior, but time has shown that it leaves a lasting and positive impact. 

After School Activities

Finding the time to complete a workday and getting to sports practices/games, elective clubs, and various events is hard enough on its own, but it is something that can be achieved with careful planning. Thoughtful coordination ahead of time and communication with close friends and family will prevent your young ones from missing out on any after school events. Always keep time structures in mind that allow your kids to be successful in both after school activities and completing their take home assignments. Get involved with their homework and study times if needed.

In addition to making time for these programs, it’s essential to make time at the dinner table with the whole family to talk about your daily experiences. It can be hard enough to hold a conversation when everyone is busy, so delegating some time to communicate could be invaluable. This creates crucial opportunities for parents to communicate and process feelings with their families. 

Communication

Along with dinner time, creating spaces for a conversation is incredibly important and should always be kept in mind, especially for our teens. Make it clear that there are always opportunities to have judgement free discussion. It could take a while, or maybe it won’t happen, but it is crucial for them to know that they have someone to speak to if needed. 

Likewise, it’s important for parents to have someone to talk to. Whether it be friends, family, or professionals, we all need time to express our feelings and create a safe space to process. Don’t always feel the need to put on a brave face and ignore real emotions at the expense of your own mental health. 

Self-Care

With all these things in mind, don’t push the idea of “me time” out of your mind, as it is imperative in keeping a healthy mental state. Take time for yourself when you have the opportunity. Recognize when there are spaces between responsibilities for you to decompress. Getting things done feels good, but sometimes you may not give yourself the chance to feel truly rewarded. Make time for a good sleep schedule and do your best to stay active as much as you can. Keeping your support system in mind is important as they will often be the ones that make your “me time” possible, and you should be willing to return the favor if possible. You take time for your family, so make time for yourself as well.  

Family & Youth Initiatives is here for any and all support needed from both students and parents alike. We understand the challenges that accompany the return to the school year and emphasize honesty about the struggles as well as the aspirations. Our Parenting Network has been developed and refined to assist parents with life’s obstacles, big or small, while our New Roots and Real Life Choices programs engage directly with students to discuss all opportunities for growth in our shared journeys.

Never forget that the successful transition back into the school year is a collective effort from everyone in the family. With preparation, communication, and self-care, your family can enter the new season ready to thrive.