From a teacher’s perspective, going back to school is bittersweet. There is a lot of excitement attached to starting a new year, but also some heartache as we say goodbye to our good friend, summer.
Here are some ideas on how to make the transition easier and pleasant for your family:
1. Create an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation
Teachers and students alike sure do love summer! That can make going back to school a challenge…and easy to complain about. See what happens when you focus on the positives of going back to school – ie: what they’re going to learn, getting to see friends everyday, who their teacher will be, fun things that you did when you were their age, etc.
2. Make time to be outside and/or move around
I can speak for most teachers when I say that we try to get kids outside and moving as much as possible. However, the reality is, your kids will likely be sitting for a longer period of time than they’re used to. Not only will going outside and getting exercise be good for their health, but also good for everyone’s sanity (teachers included!).
3. Focus on your marriage
Your marriage has an effect on your children. The more stable your marriage is, the more stable your kids will be. I don’t know everything about marriage, but I’ve worked with kids enough to know that they notice when something is off between their parents. I guarantee that your kids will benefit from your investment into your marriage!
4. Make your kids’ teachers feel valued
Starting out the year intentionally honoring your kids’ teacher will set a great example for how your kids should view them. It also will put the teacher at ease, as it can be slightly nerve- wrecking being responsible for 20-30 lives. Showing that you trust them and are thankful for them does a world of good – for both teachers and students!
5. Set goals, and celebrate meeting them
Having incentives will not only keep your kids invested in what happens throughout the school year, but is also a great way for you to stay connected to them.
6. Encourage your kids to do random acts of kindness
Communicate with your kids about the importance of serving others, and being a light in their school. I promise you – it’s contagious! I see so much joy within kids when they intentionally make someone’s day.
7. Have grace for yourselves and for your kids
Teachers, students, parents…are all human. We’re all bound to mess up at one time or another. Do the best you can, with what you have, in the time you have! School is wonderful and challenging all at once. Take advantage of opportunities to teach your children how to learn from mistakes and don’t be too hard on yourself if you make them every once in a while too.
Above all else – LOVE your kids. They respect and look up to you more than they may show you. They may not remember all the details from this upcoming school year, but I guarantee they’ll remember how they felt. Choosing to love them (whether you feel like it or not!) will set them up for success.
Happy ‘back to school’ season!
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How to Make 'Back to School Time' Enjoyable for Your Family
