The end of summer brings the excitement of a new school year, but for many parents, the first day back can feel chaotic. In this episode of “Raising Innovators,” we’re joined by Erika Seger, VP of Operations for Young Innovators, to share expert advice on navigating this transition with confidence.
Understanding the Back-to-School Transition
The start of a new school year is a time of significant change for children. They’re moving to new classrooms, meeting new teachers, and adapting to new routines. This is especially true for young children who are transitioning from an infant to a toddler classroom, where they move from one-on-one interaction to a more group-oriented environment. Erika explains that this can be a challenging time for parents as well, as they watch their little ones grow and become more independent.
These transitions continue as children move from preschool to VPK, VPK to kindergarten, and so on. Each stage brings new challenges and opportunities for growth. While it can be stressful, Erika reminds us that it’s also a time of happiness, as we get to see our children blossom and develop.
From Summer Fun to School Routines
Summer is often a more relaxed, unstructured time for families. However, this can lead to a “summer slide” in learning and a difficult transition back to the structured schedule of the school year. Many parents feel overwhelmed when their children struggle to wake up on time or follow a routine. To help ease this transition, Erika suggests that parents start incorporating school-year routines a week before school starts.
She emphasizes the importance of being mindful of each family’s unique structure while also giving yourself grace and time. For example, if your child needs to be at school by 8:00 a.m., don’t wait until 7:45 a.m. to wake them up. By providing ample time, you can help your child reset and get back into a structured routine.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Transition
To help parents, the team at Young Innovators has created a free resource with a visual calendar and routines to help start the new school year. This resource provides ideas for morning and evening routines, which are crucial for reducing anxiety and separation issues. When children know what to expect, they feel more secure and ready to learn.
For children who resist following a routine, Erika suggests picking your battles and giving them choices. For example, if a child doesn’t want to wear their shoes, you can offer them a choice between two pairs. This helps them feel in control while still ensuring they’re ready for school. It’s also important to explain the reasons behind certain rules, such as wearing shoes for safety.
Communication is Key
When you pick up your child from school, ask open-ended questions like, “Tell me about your day.” This encourages them to share more than a simple “yes” or “no” answer. You can also use prompts, like asking about the artwork they created, to start a conversation. This helps you stay connected with your child and understand their experiences at school.
A Final Word of Advice
Erika’s best advice for parents is to be prepared and show yourself grace. Prepare clothes and lunches the night before to make mornings less stressful. And remember, it’s okay if things don’t go perfectly. Every parent needs “me time” to recharge, so make sure to take care of yourself as well. A short and sweet drop-off is often the best approach, as lingering can make separation harder for both you and your child. Trust in your choice of school and know that you’re providing your child with the best possible education.
