By Lisa Glahn, LSW
Youth First
Returning to school after breaks can be difficult. Especially breaks such as summer break or winter break. Typically, the longer a student is away from school, the more challenging it is for them to return and get back into the groove of going to school. There are many tips and resources available for parents and guardians to ensure smooth transitions when returning to school, as well as to promote a more positive morning routine.
- It is important to establish a routine that is strong in consistency. When establishing a consistent schedule for a child, you are fostering their independence and helping them feel prepared for the day. Creating a visual schedule can be helpful as well. Repeating the routine over time allows the child to know what each morning entails and will become a habit.
- Waking up early helps a child prepare for the day ahead. When waking up late, a child may feel rushed and overwhelmed to make it to school on time. Breakfast before school may not be an option, or an important school supply or homework has a chance of getting left behind. Ensuring a calm and controlled morning can help promote an overall positive school day.
- Creating a unique goodbye action can make the transition more comforting and be a special moment between a student and their guardian. Whether it be a kiss, a hug, a high-five, a secret handshake, or multiple of the above, the departing method can add some fun and extra love before starting the school day.
- Having a conversation about the school day ahead can also help make children feel more prepared. This time allows your child to share any concerns or worries they may have. Talking about what the school day will look like helps your child know what to expect and can help them feel more prepared for what is to come the following day.
- Rewards and incentives can also help motivate students as well. Using a sticker chart could allow a student to earn a small reward for going to school and being able to walk into school each morning.
- Allowing your student to bring a comfort item to school can offer a sense of security. It is a good idea to communicate with your child’s teacher before bringing an item in, but most teachers would allow a student to have a picture of their family in their locker or in their folder. In the car ride to school, the student may even have a special stuffed animal or blanket they can hold on to. This can also be included in the daily morning routine.
- Lastly, offering encouragement and affirmations can go a long way in supporting a child. Encouraging your child to do their best every morning before school and providing positive affirmations will help them more than you know. This can help build confidence and allow their level of self-esteem to grow. Leaving notes in their lunchbox or backpack can help as small motivations throughout the school day as well.
Lisa Glahn, LSW, is a Youth First School Social Worker at St. Bernard School in Rockport and St. John the Baptist School in Newburgh.