Start Adjusting the Sleep Schedule
Sleep is my biggest concern about this change.
With a mostly open schedule all summer, both my daughter and myself have been waking up alarm-free.
Begin with a wake up time that is about an hour earlier than usual.
Im using a short vacation before school to help with this.
), but you could use fun activities at the end of summer vacation in the same way.
Plus, hopefully the activities will wear them out so they naturally fall asleep earlier.
My kids going to have to use broken crayons to do her schoolwork unless we start shopping.
Who doesnt like bouquets of sharpened pencils?
Even picking out a new backpack (if one is needed) can be exciting.
Also, dont be too rigid.
You might find that once they start school, they need to change their systems.
The goal is to empower them so they will be more likely to keep things in order.
Pilers might prefer document boxes or trays while kid-friendly file folders should appeal to filers.
Keep these running lists in a prominent place in their work area.
Finally, lets talk clothing.
The average spending on clothes and shoes as part of the back-to-school budget isover $350.
Many schools have reading lists and book reports due on the first day of school.
Working on those towards the end of summer can help them transition into school mode.
For a long time, Ive also wanted her to help usmeal plan.
Youdont have to stick with just PB&J, either.
For all of the above, older kids should have more autonomy and responsibility.
Illustration by Jim Cooke.
