The first few weeks of school can have a tremendous impact on our children’s views and attitudes towards school for the rest of the year. So, it is significantly important to help our children have a smooth transition into the school year. By now most of our children and adolescents are used to going to sleep late, sleeping in, and maybe their entire routine has changed over the past few weeks. It is important to start establishing earlier bed times, decreasing one hour a week until reaching the desire bedtime schedule. Remember that younger kids need at least 10 to 12 hours of sleep while older kids are okay with 7 to 8 hours.
To establish healthy routines and be consistent can be the foundation of a successful school year. However, it is also important to keep in mind the pressure children can undergo while in school, higher academic expectations combined with peer pressure can be overwhelming especially at the beginning of the year. It is important to be aware of our children’s need to fit in while also fulfill our expectations as parents or caregivers. So, establish healthy routines that will allow them to express how they feel regarding their experience in school. Always focus on their strengths, communicating your trust in their ability to do well in different areas. Remember that a great artist may not be great with math, or entrepreneur may not remember historic facts and dates. Encourage them to work hard in school while teaching them that their grades will not determine their future.
Giannina Reyes, LPC, NCC
Lifegrowth Marriage and Family Center
5 South Centre Avenue, Leesport PA, 19533
