by Kim Nygaard

Created on: July 22, 2009   Last Updated: July 25, 2009

Getting a child ready for school each day poses its challenges. usually after a long break like summer vacation, Christmas break or spring break, the challenge can be greater. The child will need to readjust his or her schedule so as to prepare for the school day and week. To make it easier on your child, try to keep your child on a schedule or routine during break. If their bedtimes and awake times are similar, then the transition back to a school schedule is less difficult. If you have not stuck to a routine, then begin to adjust back to your normal school week schedule 1 week before the return back to school. This will give your child the time needed to adjust to going to bed earlier and waking up earlier. This plan also allows your child to get 8 to 10 hours of recommended sleep nightly.

The goal for your child and for you, is to start the day positively. A great way to do this is to develop a plan and stick to it. Begin by determining what is necessary for your child's school day. This includes a packed lunch or lunch money, homework or projects, backpack, sports or extracurricular activity equipment, etc. Since it is best to be proactive than reactive, make a complete list of everything needed to get ready for school.

If it is the beginning of the year, determine what supplies, clothes, etc will be needed. Purchase early to avoid lack of availability or choice. This will allow your child to begin to prepare for the new school year. It is also helpful to have your child accompany you to the store. This helps promote a positive feeling of excitement.

When making lunches, make sure it is healthy and balanced. Some schools ask to send a nutritious snack such as raisins, grapes or other fruit, vegetables or crackers and cheese. Be sure to include food that your child will eat. If possible, make 1 day a week special where your child can buy lunch or you include a special treat, candy or something they like such as a Lunchable or Uncrustable sandwich.

In the morning, develop a routine. Routine should include completing necessary tasks first. In order to get ready for school, your child should get dressed first, then eat, etc. Tv or down time is only possible if your child is done and there is time available. This routine works very well if it is started and consistently reinforced.

Reinforce the good morning or effort with verbally praise.. This will reinforce the set daily pattern of getting ready for school without complications. For many people, this established routine continues into adulthood. Therefore, it may assist in your child's daily pattern when they are adults and are employed.

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