As summer winds down and the new school year approaches, parents and children alike are gearing up for the transition back to classrooms and routines.  According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), many parents experience significant anxiety related to the transition back to school. This anxiety can stem from concerns about their children’s adjustment, academic performance, and social interactions​

Below, we explore some unique and health-focused tips for both parents and kids to ensure a successful start to the school year, which hopefully can reduce stress and anxiety for both!

For Parents

Create a Morning Playlist:

Develop a playlist with upbeat, energetic songs to help wake up the household and set a positive tone for the day. Music can boost mood and energy levels, making mornings smoother and more enjoyable.

Implement a Tech-Free Hour Before Bed:

Encourage a tech-free hour before bedtime to improve sleep quality. Blue light from screens can disrupt sleep patterns, so winding down without devices can help children get better rest.

Prepare Healthy Snack Stations:

Set up healthy snack stations in the fridge and pantry with pre-portioned, nutritious snacks. This makes it easy for kids to grab a healthy option, especially during the hectic school mornings or after school.

Create a Family Calendar:

Use a large calendar in a common area to track everyone’s activities, assignments, and appointments. This helps keep the family organized and reduces last-minute surprises.

Teach Time Management Skills:

Help your child learn time management by using visual timers and creating a schedule together. Visual aids can make it easier for younger kids to understand the concept of time.

 

For Kids

Mindful Breathing Exercises:

Teach children simple breathing exercises to help them stay calm and focused throughout the day. This can be especially useful before tests or presentations.

Healthy Hydration Habits:

Encourage kids to carry a reusable water bottle and set reminders to drink water throughout the day. Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining energy levels and cognitive function.

Practice the Backpack Routine:

Teach kids to pack their backpacks the night before school, including all necessary materials and a healthy lunch. This reduces morning stress and ensures they have everything they need. Make sure their backpacks are not too heavy! Check out our guide.

Set Up a Homework-Friendly Space:

Designate a quiet, organized space for homework and studying. A clutter-free environment can help children concentrate better and be more productive.

Emphasize the Importance of Stretch Breaks:

Encourage children to take short stretch breaks during long study sessions or screen time. Stretching can help reduce fatigue and improve focus.

Boost Immune System with Probiotics:

Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or kefir in your child’s diet to help boost their immune system. A strong immune system is essential for fending off school-year illnesses.

Routine Eye Exams:

Schedule routine eye exams to ensure your child’s vision is optimal for learning. Unaddressed vision issues can impact academic performance. About 25% of school-aged children have vision problems, but many go undiagnosed because kids may not realize their vision is not normal.

Mental Health Check-Ins:

Regularly check in with your child about their feelings and stress levels. Open communication about mental health can help identify and address issues early.

Balanced Sleep Schedule:

Ensure your child follows a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends. Adequate sleep is vital for cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall health.

Implementing these lesser-known tips can make the back-to-school transition smoother and promote a healthier, more organized lifestyle for both parents and children.

 

Sources:

Healthcare.utah.edu
hearthdisplay.com
psychologytoday.com
cedars-sinai.org
openai.com