This article was published on August 15th, 2018
Summer is almost over in Bahrain, which means it’s back to school time! And while we understand just how excited parents are at this point, there are a few things you should do to prepare for a new school year after a long summer off. Here are a few things you should consider:
1. Set up a sleep routine:
Its normal for parents to be more lenient when it comes to sleeping times in the summer, but with school around the corner, try and reinstate a regular bedtime and morning time routine to help prepare your child for school. Try this a week or ten days before school starts to make your mornings a lot less stressful.
2. Gather your supplies:
Dig up the school supplies that you have in storage from last year and make a list for whatever is missing or needs replacing. Have this ready about ten days before school starts, so you have time to shop for any last-minute items.
3. Restore school time routine:
Just like the sleeping time routine, this is also important so that the child can get back into the swing of things. In addition to waking up and going to bed at the same time, have meal times set as well, in addition to after school activity timings.
4. Set up a homework station:
Decide with your child (if age appropriate, of course) on a time and place for finishing up homework. This could be the living room, their own room or even the kitchen. If possible, you can even create an entire study area if the space is available.
5. Think of after school plans:
Are you planning on registering your child for swimming classes? Arts and crafts? Music lessons? Get those plans done a few weeks before school starts, so you are locked in and ready when the day comes. Even if you are not planning on registering for any extracurricular activities, think of things that you can do with your child after school and make a solid plan.
6. Get a check-up:
A few days before school starts, make sure that you get a physical checkup of your child ensure that everything is in tip-top shape, healthy wise.
7. Get organized:
As a parent you are at the center of your child’s back to school experience, and will have the major responsibility of keeping everything and everyone in check, so get organized! Designate a sport for homework, for school circulars, for school supplies, etc.… make sure you also follow the bed times and routines for a smooth weekday process.
