Back to school—While some students dread it, many parents look forward to their children returning to a structured routine. The transition from spending every day in the sun to long hours spent indoors behind a desk can be a challenge. Last year, according to ILEARN statistics, most Wayne County students demonstrated below 50% proficiency in both English and math. That’s why it’s important to do everything we can now to set students up for success. To support this effort, we’ve put together a list of tips to help students get back into the swing of things and start the year off strong.
Get back into a healthy routine.
It is very important for students to get plenty of quality sleep. Sleep is essential for overall health, mental clarity, and academic success. One way to improve sleep quality is by turning off all electronics an hour before bedtime and maintaining a consistent nighttime routine. Starting your day off with a healthy breakfast is also important. It’s known as the most important meal of the day for a reason!
Prepare for the new year.
A new school year can bring a lot of uncertainty, but there are ways to ease the transition. Be sure to attend any student orientations, especially if you will be in a new school building. Make sure you have all the necessary school supplies for the year, and plan how you’ll get to and from school each day. Most schools have school supply resources available if families cannot afford them, so don’t be hesitant to ask for assistance if you need it. For younger students, visiting the school playground before classes begin can be a great way to help them feel more comfortable.
Create a homework-friendly environment.
Create a homework-friendly environment that supports focus and productivity by minimizing distractions such as screens and noise. Establishing a designated study area, ideally separate from where you sleep, can help improve homework habits and reinforce a healthy bedtime routine. A consistent, quiet workspace makes a big difference in staying organized and motivated. If you don’t have a place at home to do this, consider visiting your local library, a quiet place in your local park, or a church.
Communicate.
Students: talk to your parents or guardians if you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Parents: check in with your children and offer support if you notice them struggling to stay organized. For families juggling sports, clubs, and other activities, consider using a family calendar to keep track of everyone’s schedules. Staying organized as a family can help reduce the additional stress that comes with busy routines.
Schools also have strong partnerships with community and mental health resources for students to use. Take advantage of them, if you need them.
Stay positive and keep an open mind.
A new school year brings new opportunities. It’s important to be open to new experiences and meeting new people. Try to be the classmate that others are excited to see at school each day, not the one that brings them down. Learn something new each day, make new friends, and most importantly, have fun!
These tips were compiled from these articles on healthychildren.org and kidshealth.org. More advice and tips can be found in each. ILEARN statistics were pulled from this article written by Western Wayne News.
