Are you ready????

The back-to-school season sneaks up fast - often bringing excitement, nerves and a flurry of things to do. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or just heading back for another fun year at Alexander School, preparation can make the transition smoother for everyone.

Back-to-School Prep

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Ease Back Into Routines

Summer means late bedtimes, lazy mornings and lots of free play. A week or two before school starts, begin shifting into a school-friendly schedule. Gradually move bedtime earlier and start waking kids up around the time they will need to getup for school. Reestablish routines for meals, screen time and quiet reading or calm-down time in the evening.

Talk About What to Expect

Even if your child is excited, back-to-school can bring jitters. Talk about what their day might look like especially if they are new to the school. Younger kids might benefit from practicing tasks like opening lunch containers, tying shoes or packing a backpack.

Practice Skills

Encourage your child to spend time reading, writing and practicing basic math facts.

Hype It Up

Talk often about the exciting adventures this upcoming school year has in store. Focus on the activities you know your child will enjoy. Seeing old friends, making new friends, a new teacher, recess, new lunch menu items, recess games, special area classes, assemblies, trips, parties and most importantly LEARNING in a place where learning is FUN!!

Separation Anxiety

It is normal for children to experience anxiety about leaving their primary caregiver whether it's the first day of kindergarten or the transition to a new grade. Our goal is for all students to love learning and that starts by making them feel like a part of the Alexander School family. If your child is having trouble transitioning back to school, please reach out to the classroom teacher or Mrs. Carrigg for support.

For more tips on preparing for the back-to-school transition see the resources below.

Kindergarten separation anxiety: How to help — theCityMomsIf you’re facing a kindergarten transition this year, here’s what to expect—with tips on how to help your children navigate the transition.

How to help Kindergartners with separation anxietyDiscover tips on how to help your kindergartener with separation anxiety and strategies to ease their transition into school with confidence and comfort.

Books and activities to reinforce your connection after drop-off.

Read The Invisible String by Patrice Karst and make matching bracelets. When your child looks at the bracelet during school they will be reminded of your connection.

Read The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn. Give your child a small heart (can be a paper heart) to keep with them at school. The heart will serve as a reminder of your love even when you are not with them.

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