Dear DebbieWe have had a great summer. My boys, 5 and 8, went to camp for a couple of weeks but mostly we have been at the beach.
I am worried about the transition from summer vacation to a new school year.Last year my 8 year old fell apart and now my second child is entering kindergarten. I am hoping you can help me to help them. ~ School Bound Mom
Dear School Bound,
I know we are in the midst of sporadic heat waves, but you only have to look at the store brochures to know it is "Back to School" season.Not only is that a reminder to buy new pencils and crayons but also to prepare ourselves for a more structured day.That being said, don't put the bathing suits away just yet.
Here are a few subtle changes you can make to help the boys get ready for school.Begin to alter their bedtimes and waking up time to resemble that of a school schedule.You have time to do this slowly but aim for an 8 or 8:30 p.m. bedtime with a 7 a.m. rise and shine.Also, offer a good breakfast that will give the boys energy to last the whole morning, as snack may not be part of their school morning.
This is also a good time to help the children re-connect with their school friends.Inviting one friend for each child would work best.
Do something special like a picnic lunch in the backyard and playing under the sprinkler.These summertime memories will give the children something in common to talk about those first few days of school.
Another idea is to talk to your boys about some of the fun things they did (or are going to do in the case of the kindergartner) last year in school.
Talk about all the things they learned and the sports or after school activities that they enjoyed and will continue to enjoy this school year. This way you are helping them remember that although they love the summer, they enjoyed the school year too.
Taking a walk or driving by the school is a good idea too.If possible play in the playground and take a look in the windows of their new classrooms.Some schools will allow you to come inside to see the classrooms call your school to see if that is a possibility.
It sounds like you have had some wonderful mom-and-boys time this summer.Promise the boys that you will make time for them during the school year too. Make a date now for a fall leaf peeking hike or even a movie day.
Enjoy the rest of the summer!
Until next time, be well. ~ Deb
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