Dear Numiverse Parents, 

As the summer days have winded down, it’s that time of year again – back to school!  The excitement and anticipation have been building, and we want to support this journey with grace through transitioning back to school. Following is a practical back-to-school guide to help you and your child kickstart the academic year with confidence. 

What’s Our Why?

 Let’s first remember why putting forth all the effort we do to send off our children on their academic adventures, is worth it! 

Education and Knowledge Acquisition: School is the cornerstone of your child’s academic journey, where they gain knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities that will shape their future. 

Social and Emotional Development: Interacting with peers fosters social skills, empathy, and the ability to navigate various social situations, enriching your child’s emotional growth. 

Personal Growth and Independence: Through academic challenges and responsibilities, your child learns independence, resilience, and the art of taking initiative. 

Exposure to Various Subjects and Activities: Schools offer a diverse range of subjects and extracurricular activities that allow your child to explore their interests and passions. 

Preparation for the Future: School equips your child with the skills and knowledge needed for higher education or vocational training, while also teaching essential life skills. 

Cultural and Global Awareness: Schools promote diversity, providing your child with exposure to different cultures, beliefs, and perspectives. 

Development of Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Your child learns to think critically, analyze information, and solve problems effectively – skills they’ll use throughout life. 

Communication and Language Skills: Schools emphasize communication skills, preparing your child to express themselves clearly in various contexts. 

Citizenship and Civic Responsibility: Through school activities, your child learns about their role as a responsible citizen and the importance of contributing positively to society. 

 

Dr. Jania’s Back to School with Grace Guide: 5 steps

Open Up a Conversation: Set the Stage for Success

Start by having an open and positive conversation with your child about the upcoming school year. Discuss any anxieties or worries they might have and provide reassurance. Talk about the exciting aspects of going back to school, such as reuniting with friends, new learning opportunities, and extracurricular activities. Encourage your child to share their goals and expectations for the year ahead, fostering a sense of ownership and motivation.

Establish Routines: Bring Back the Structure

During the summer months, routines may have become more relaxed, but returning to a consistent schedule is crucial for a successful transition back to school. Begin re-establishing regular bedtimes, meal times, and study periods a couple of weeks before school starts. This gradual adjustment will help your child’s body and mind adapt to the new routine without the shock of a sudden change.

Prepare Together: Shop for Supplies and Plan Outfits

Make the back-to-school process exciting by involving your child in the preparation. Take a trip to buy school supplies, allowing them to pick out items that express their personality. Planning outfits for the first week of school can also be a fun activity that builds anticipation. Involving your child in these decisions not only empowers them but also gets them excited about the upcoming school days.

Set Goals: Encourage Growth and Achievement

Help your child set realistic goals for the upcoming school year. These goals could be academic, social, or personal in nature. Discuss how they plan to achieve these goals and the steps they need to take. Having clear objectives can motivate your child to stay focused and dedicated to their studies while also fostering a sense of responsibility.

Foster a Positive Learning Environment: Create a Space for Success

Designate a quiet and organized space for homework and studying at home. Help your child organize their study materials, create a schedule, and minimize distractions in this workspace. Encourage them to keep track of assignments, projects, and tests in a planner or digital tool. By providing a conducive environment for learning, you’re setting the stage for academic success.  

Together, You’ll Make This School Year Shine! As you embark on this new school year journey, remember you’re opening doors to a world of knowledge, growth, and opportunities. We hope this helps you and your child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. 

Wishing you all a fantastic and fulfilling school year ahead! 

Warm regards, 

Dr. Jania Davis, DNP, PMHNP