August has snuck up on us again!  While many school-aged children view this sunny month as the official “Part 2” of summer vacation, others are hearing the familiar sound of the 8:55 bell creeping up on them.  Just as it is difficult for adults to return to work after two weeks lounging at the lake, kids too can experience challenges adjusting to a new schedule (whether it is familiar or not).  School is a job too! Fear of increasing academic expectations, questions about class placements, problems with teachers, and post-pandemic unknowns are just a few worries that are circulating the minds of both our elementary and secondary students.

• Chat About It!: Abide by the old, familiar saying “if you want to know, ask!” When you feel the timing is appropriate, casually strike up a conversation with your child about return to school.  Ask how he/she is feeling about it, or if there are any questions.  Remember not to be pushy and allow some “wait time” before expecting an answer.  Change can be a lot to process, and after all, it is technically still summer.
• Let ‘Em Play: 2020/21 was an unprecedented school year. Although our young folks demonstrated phenomenal resiliency given the circumstances, we were all exhausted come June.  Not to mention, kids missed out on the enjoyable parts of their educational experience – organized sports, school assemblies, clubs and activities, and socialization outside of their classroom cohorts.  With restrictions lifted in Saskatchewan, it is finally safe to let them play.  Play is an extremely important part of development.
• Make Supply Shopping Fun: Searching for duo-tangs doesn’t have to be doom and gloom! Back to school is far more exciting when you’ve picked out your very own brand-new box of pointy crayons to snap, or a two pack of glue sticks (the purple ones of course!).  Make it a date.  Your child deserves an ice cream cone or a round of mini golf too.  C’mon!
• Attend School Meet and Greets: If your child’s school has a “Bring Your Backpack Night” or something similar – go, go, go! Meeting your new teacher, finding the nearest washroom, and sitting in your new desk can be a comforting experience when unknows are a little daunting.
• Establish Routines: Do NOT wait until Sunday night to get into the groove of things. Start a couple weeks prior to back to school.  Get to bed and wake up at a decent time, eat lunch at noon, and limit time gaming and watching YouTube.

School days, school days.  Dear old golden rule days.  Admit it: you’re just a little excited too!

Written by Kimberly Desautels, Educational Strategist/Tutor with Wildflowers