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10 Tips to Help Your Kids Start the School Year with Confidence
By: Children's Trust of South Carolina Staff
While the weather in South Carolina may be telling us it is still summer, our kids are heading back to school.
The start of a new school year is a great time to reset routines and help your kids start the school year confidently. Here are some tips to help you jump-start back to school and make school a priority outside the classroom.
1. Establish a routine. Set a consistent bedtime and wake-up schedule. Plan morning and evening routines to reduce stress. Pack the book bag and leave it in the same place every night. Set out what they will wear tomorrow, including that elusive pair of shoes.
2. Create a study space and a reading nook. Set up a dedicated, clutter-free area for homework and studying. Think about a separate place for reading. Reduce background noise if you can.
3. Organize school supplies. Involve them in shopping for school supplies. Label and organize their materials together. Double-check with the teacher for any last-minute additions or subtractions to the school’s supply list.
4. Foster independence. Gradually encourage your child to take responsibility for their own tasks, such as packing their backpack or organizing their homework. Building independence boosts self-esteem and confidence.
5. Encourage a positive, growth mindset. Emphasize effort and persistence over perfection. Celebrate both successes and attempts, encouraging positive self-talk and resilience. Listen and acknowledge their concerns, addressing any anxiety head-on. Work together to figure out ways to reduce the stress.
6. Build their social skills. Discuss what it means to be a good friend and how to manage social situations, including tricky ones, to help your child feel confident in making new friends and interacting with classmates. Encourage empathy, active listening, and positive body language.
7. Get to know the unknown. Practice the route. Walk or drive the route to school together before the first day. Meet the teachers. Attend any orientation sessions or open houses.
8. Be there. If possible, take them to school and drop them off or be home to greet them when the bus or carpool drops them off. Make those first few days a priority for your schedule.
9. Ask open-ended questions. Give them your undivided attention when they are answering. Who is new in your class? What was the best thing about the day? Describe your classroom. Where is your desk? What did you all read? What did you do before lunch? What did you do during recess? Who are your new friends? Don’t forget to ask follow-up questions!
10. Celebrate! Acknowledge and celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement encourages a can-do attitude and motivates your child to try their best. Rewards don’t have to be expensive. Fix their favorite meal. Leave a note in their lunch box. Go for ice cream after dinner. Do a celebration dance or create a special handshake.
Helping your child start the new school year with confidence involves a mix of preparation, support, and encouragement. Providing a stable foundation and fostering a positive mindset empowers them to face new challenges with enthusiasm and resilience.
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