How is it possible that we’re already talking about back to school? It seems like only yesterday that we were still waiting for all the snow to melt. This summer felt like a long time coming, but then it flew by at supersonic speeds. You can already feel the Fall chill in the air at night.
Young ones may feel less than overjoyed at the thought of returning to school, but there is still plenty to look forward to. Soon, the crisp days of Fall will be here, with the promise of many more fun experiences with their school friends.
For parents, a little organization and planning is the key to a stress-free transition.
Readjust To Earlier Bedtimes
Nothing says summertime more than late nights and sleeping in. It’s easy to get used to and can be a difficult habit to break once it’s time to get back into the swing of things. Having to get up early can be a shock to the system when school starts. The best way to avoid this unpleasantness is to begin adjusting now.
Starting this week, why not have the children go to bed 10 minutes earlier and get up 10 minutes earlier in the morning? Next week, it will be 20 minutes, and so on. By the time the first day of school arrives, your family will be well adjusted to the new schedule, which means less fighting in the morning to get ready.
Still deciding on what school your child will attend? Here are some of our picks:
Return To Routines And Productivity
Getting up earlier isn’t the only routine your household will need to adjust to. During the summer holidays, it’s easy to pick up many leisurely habits.
For example, who doesn’t love lounging in their pyjamas for hours on end? Then there’s the endless screentime, binge-watching TV shows and playing video games. Soon, that will all have to change. Children go from lazing about to getting out and being productive. Trying to make the switch all at once may feel like an uphill battle.
Easing into the transition by gradually creating new routines will be much more pleasant for everyone. Have children eat breakfast, brush their teeth, shower and be dressed first thing in the morning before playing with their friends.
It’s also a good idea to start cutting back on screen time. We recommend replacing TV time and surfing the Internet with board games, books, and physical activity to encourage socialization. New activities stimulate the mind and can help prepare your child to learn.
Back To School Shopping Made Easy
For some students, shopping for the school year is the highlight of the season. However, it can be stressful for parents, especially if your budget is already stretched thin. By creating a plan now, you can ensure children have everything they need without spending a fortune.
Checking with the school dress code before hitting the stores will help you save money and prevent your child from being sent home for violations. Once you know the code, you can start making a list of what you’ll need. Go through the closet to see what your child already has that still fits and is in good condition. Once you take stock of what you already have, you may discover that you don’t need to buy much. Often, you can get by with a few pieces and accessories to keep your child interested.
You can do the same with school supplies. Your child likely has some pens, pencils, art supplies, notebooks, and binders from the previous year.
Need some ideas for getting your child ready for class? Check out our Back To School Checklist right here.
If you find you already have most of what you need, you can enjoy a shopping trip for a few minor touches and go out for a treat afterward. It’s a fantastic way to bond with your child and help boost their morale for the upcoming school year.
Review School Routes And Update Emergency Protocols
Before the first day of class, review the route to school with your children. Will they walk, bike or ride the bus? Take the trip with them the first few times to ensure they feel safe and confident.
Encourage them to travel with friends whenever possible, and let them know what to do if they get lost or another emergency arises.
Now is an excellent time to review all safety protocols and to make sure all contact numbers are up-to-date. If anyone other than you will pick your child up from school, be sure to inform the school administrators.
Looking for ways to enjoy the last few days of the summer holidays? Here are some activities your children will love to experience with you:
- Top Hiking Trails In The West End
- Keeping Cool In The West End
- 5 Fun Activities Near Bloor West Village
The Fun Isn’t Over!
School may be around the corner, but summer isn’t over yet. There is still time to make the most of it. Toronto has many fantastic activities for your family to enjoy. Here are a few ideas for you:
- Play sports at the park
- Spend an afternoon splashing in the sprinklers
- Explore one of Toronto’s beautiful hiking trails
- Have a game night with Friends
- Enjoy a meal on the patio
- Visit one of the free pools in the city
Reassure your child that plenty of good times lie ahead and a new year at school is nothing to be anxious about.
Back-to-school season is an exciting time for new beginnings. For many people, that means moving to a new home in a new neighbourhood. If you have questions about the busy Fall market, we are here for you! Reach out today, and we are happy to help.
