As students prepare to head back to school and return to in-person classes, it’s important to remember that learning also happens outside the classroom—and the key to success can start right at home. For those parents who only want the best for their kids, here are some great tips for getting back-to-school and back into the routine.

Set a Schedule

The first step to getting your child ready for back-to-school is to start and keep a schedule—even before the start of the school year. Prioritizing a sleep schedule and morning routine will prepare them for the earlier wake-up calls and getting ready for the school day. And remember, you don’t have to set the perfect schedule all at once. Adding one change at a time, like having a set lunch time or focusing on an activity in the afternoon, may make the transition smoother for those students who have become accustomed to virtual learning.

Get Your Z’s

When creating your child’s sleep schedule, make sure they will be getting all the sleep they need to be successful at school the next day. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children 6 to 12 years of age should regularly sleep 9 to 12 hours, while teenagers 13 to 18 years of age should sleep 8 to 10 hours a night. A proper night’s sleep is a natural mood booster and will help your child focus and be the best students they can be.

Food Is Fuel

Now that your child is organized and well-rested, another great way to make their back-to-school transition easier starts with their lunch bags. By incorporating brain food packed with all the right nutrients, like hard-boiled eggs, Greek yogurt, nuts and fruit, your child will have the proper fuel they need to both perform well in the classroom and play with friends at recess.

Safety First

Practicing good hygiene is a hot-button topic right now, and it’s in your best interest to have this conversation with your child. Having good hygiene habits are essential—even more so facing today’s reality. Make sure your child knows how to wash their hands properly and how often they should be washing them. Packing a kit that can fit in their backpack with disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer and a mask is a good habit to get into for the wellness of the whole family.

Talk the Talk

Going back to school in-person may be challenging for some kids—and that’s why taking the time to sit down and talk to your child can make all the difference. Validate their feelings, learn what they may be struggling with and come up with the best solutions to set them up for success. It’s important to be there for them and practice patience and kindness as an example.

School days are almost back in session in the Dublin Unified School District, and now you’ve got the ABC’s for helping your child through the transition. Wishing everyone a successful school year!