August is here, so we soaking in the last days of summer and are aware that school is on the horizon. How do we get everyone ready? Transition times can lead to increased stress and anxiety for parents and children. Here are some helpful tools –

1.    Involve children in the process. Celebrate the summer. Make an extra visit to a favorite activity or plan an outing with friends. Celebrate the return to school. Include kids on back to school shopping. Allow them to pick out their new backpack or school clothes.

2.    Return to routines. Identify bedtime and waking goals. Gradually work to these goals, moving bedtimes 15 minutes earlier each night. Upon waking, return to morning school routines (getting dressed, eating breakfast, making lunches). As kids mature, their responsibilities will change. As a parent, consider what tasks may change.

3.    Set time aside for questions. Children process differently than adults. We may be concerned with deadlines and paperwork. Children may be curious if their teacher has a pet. Ask your child what information they would like to share with a new teacher or class. Information can be shared by bringing a few photos to meet the teacher. This encourages a child to connect. Allow children to think of 3-5 questions that they would like to know.

4.    Check in with professionals, if needed. Dentists, pediatricians, and therapists are all avenues of support. I encourage clients to set a back to school appointment at the beginning of the school year to set goals and create positive feelings concerning school, including peers and family. It takes a VILLAGE!