Why a Back to School Routine Matters
By Annie Preziosi, Contributor
This summer, my daughter and I were lucky enough to go on a vacation that led us to beaches and cities and encompassed a variety of sleeping arrangements and transport. But when we get back home, I know she will struggle to return to a routine that doesn’t revolve around late nights with cousins and grandparents sneaking her treats.
If you have a small child at home then you probably know how routines help kids avoid struggles and meltdowns. Since there will be an adjustment, my advice is to begin the back to school shift now- in late July/ early August, to allow for a smoother transition. Small moves can help your child adapt to the classroom and give them more confidence for the new school year.
We know that when kids are rested, it’s easier for them to follow directions and process information— so switch to the bedtime and wake up hours that your child will experience during the school day. Moving back to that regular timetable goes a long way towards helping your child thrive.
I recommend developing a routine around literacy. Reading to kids and giving them early access to phonemic awareness improves literacy outcomes, so incorporate time to practice skills in fun and predictable ways. Story time before bed, practicing the alphabet right after lunch or playing a rhyming game for your more active child at roughly the same time of day will help prepare them.
Also, incorporating developmentally appropriate, independent tasks like sweeping or doing a puzzle develops listening skills, an essential part of school. When my daughter was in Pre- Kindergarten, I made a Hundreds Chart and asked her to put a penny on every number. Then, she loved to go over it by counting to 100 together, which also developed her number sense. Whatever you do, remember the point is to help kids practice following directions to complete a task unassisted.
Lastly, remember to be patient. Implementing small shifts a few weeks before school begins helps your child get on a schedule, freshen up academic skills and follow directions. However, it will be an adjustment and there may be conflict. Normalizing making mistakes, managing frustration, and continuing to try may be the best way to prepare your kids for school after all!
Annie Preziosi is a New Orleans based educator with 17+ years of experience as a teacher and administrator who specializes in literacy and exceptional student services. She has an undergrad degree from NYU and a Masters of Science in Teaching from Pace University.
