A Few ABCs for Back to School Prep

Pencils? Check. Book bag? Check. New wardrobe? Check.

Lunch box? Bus pass? Notebooks?

Check, check and check.

Soon – too soon for kids and not soon enough for parents – class will be back in session. You’ve learned your past mistakes, and this year you’ve got back to school prep mastered … or have you? Is your family ready for the lifestyle changes a new school year brings to children of all ages?

As summer winds down, study up on the following to earn an ‘A’ for your back to school readiness.

Rest Up Responsibly. Summer fun means late nights and even later wake-up calls. Now is the time to reestablish an evening routine that includes a consistent bed time. The week before school begins, gradually make lights out a little earlier each night until you’ve reached the right school-year bedtime for your child.

Fuel Up. Learning is hard work. Prepare for each day by planning healthy meals and snacks that give your kids the energy they’ll need to focus all day long. For breakfast, select fresh fruits, cereal and nuts that are high in whole grain, fiber and protein while skipping added sugars. Follow the same pattern for lunch and snacks, adding vegetables to the mix. If your child is buying lunch at school, teach them to make good food choices that won’t leave them feeling sluggish as the day wears on.

Hands Up. Want to make sure the new school year doesn’t get derailed by a sudden bout of the sniffles? Emphasize the importance of hand washing with your children. Remind them to use soap and water, washing for about as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song – twice – before and after meals, and before leaving a restroom.

‘A’ is for Active. After a summer of swimming and playtime, it’s important to include exercise in a child’s back to school schedule. On days with no gym class or other after-school sports, be sure to encourage active time so children don’t become too sedentary by filling free time with only screen time.

Stay Involved. Back to school isn’t just about establishing routines for your child. Prepare to play an active role in your child’s learning. Circle Back to School Night on the calendar. Set aside time to review homework. And talk to your kids about their days to learn not only how they are dealing with a new school year but how you can support them for continued success.