Preparing your Child to go Back to School

Going back to school can sometimes be a stressful situation for your child, but you can help your child eliminate some of those stresses. Provided are just a few helpful suggestions that will help make your child’s transition back to school an easy one.

Kindergarten & Elementary:

• Spend time with your child talking about what they can expect about the upcoming change. Let them ask questions and be understanding about apprehensions. 
• Contact the school (if the school has not already contacted you) to assure immunization requirements are met prior to the first day of school. 
• Gather school supplies, including paper, pencils and other necessary items recommended by your child’s teacher. Allow your child to participate in choosing their supplies to help foster enthusiasm about upcoming activities.
• As the first day of school approaches, begin to establish a routine with your child; especially regarding bedtimes and mornings.
• Talk about important safety issues with your child, including what to do if a stranger approaches and who would be an appropriate person to talk to should a problem arise.
• Discuss appropriate behavior, what is and is not acceptable in the classroom, as well as on the playground.

Middle & Jr. High School:

• Talk with your child about the changes they can expect from Elementary to Middle/Jr. High School.
• Familiarize yourself with your child’s new class schedule and encourage your child to shop for the supplies needed in their particular classes.
• If medical exams are necessary prior to beginning classes, work with your child in setting up appointments. Be sure to bring proper school forms if they need to be filled out by the physician.
• Discuss extracurricular programs available at the school and talk about any programs or activities that sound interesting to your child.
• If a “Back to School” night is offered, attend it with your child. 
• Become familiar with the school and teachers, as well as lockers and other day-to-day aspects of the upcoming school year. 
• Talk about school rules and regulations.

High School:

• As High School begins, be prepared for an increasing degree of independence. 
• Work together with your child in establishing curfews, rules and expectations from each of your perspectives. 
• Remind your child to complete all necessary forms before starting school, including making doctor’s appointments if necessary. 
• If a “Back to School” night is offered, attend it with your child. 
• Become familiar with the school and teachers, as well as lockers and other day-to-day aspects of the upcoming school year. 
• Talk about extracurricular activities your child intends to participate in. Show encouragement and whenever possible, attend the event.
• Begin preparing with your child for their drivers license exams, and talk about expectations and rules.

College:

• Offer assistance to your child if they need help with any aspect of preparing to start college.
• Provide your child with immunization records (immunization records are required by most institutions).
• If your child is going away to school, participate in putting together a list of necessary items including things like school supplies and home necessities. 
• Discuss college payment options, including financial aid, scholarships, and other resources with your child. 
• Talk about the responsibility of financial independence, credit, and other aspects of your child’s financial future.