6 Back to School Tips for Parents in 2023

The first week back to school is approaching quickly. Whether your kids are starting kindergarten or their senior year of high school, parents, here are some tips to make getting back into the school routine a little easier.

1. Set a consistent schedule

Children thrive on structure and schedules and it can benefit them in the long run. According to a study done by University at Albany in 2016, they found that individuals who grow up with predictable, daily routines are less likely to have time management or attention problems as adults. Having consistent meal times, homework/study time, extracurricular activities, bed times, etc. can set them up for success.

2. Pick out their clothes ahead of time

If you have young children, you may pick out their clothes for them and as they get older you may let them choose their own outfits. However you do it at home, it’s best to do it the day before so it will save you time and headache the morning of the school day and get you out of the door much faster. One less decision in the day, the better.

3. Encourage daily movement

Humans are designed to move, especially children. They need to get out their energy and physical activity will keep them strong and happier. According to the CDC, individuals that are more active are less likely to experience anxiety and depression and will also lower their chance of having heart disease. In another study done by Michigan State University, movement can increase learning in children so keep them moving!

4. Don’t overcommit your children or yourselves

We’ve all been there and can probably say that we may have bitten off more than we can chew and some days/weeks can be overwhelming. You shouldn’t make it a regular thing and definitely not for your kids. Limit signing your kids up for many extracurriculars and instead start with a couple they are interested in and go from there. Start slow and know your limits.

5. Ask how they are doing

As parents, you of course want to be there for your child and ask them how they are doing and ensure their quality of life is a great one. Children are resilient and may not think they are affected by things they experience and can shake it off and not talk about it. Children that don’t feel they can talk about their day or how they are feeling may have issues later as an adult. Be the amazing parent that you are and check-in on how those kiddos are doing all around.

6. Ask questions that help tell a story

Have you ever asked a child “How was school?” and the only response you get is “Good.” Even if you haven’t you might be able to imagine how comedically frustrating it is to get some answers out of children. Rather than asking them “How was school?”, instead ask “What did you learn in [insert school subject here] class today?” So they are then forced to answer in further detail. Also in true kid fashion, you might also just get “I dunno” as a response. Maybe education isn’t interesting to them but maybe lunch was interesting or possibly they made a new friend. Avoid asking questions that can elicit one word or lined responses. Ask questions that make them think about how to answer and draw out their memories from the day.

Good luck to all of the kids going back to school this August and the same thing goes to you, parents. You are all superheroes that are doing all of the wonderful things that you do and keep on keeping on. You got this!