Successful transitions back to school

As we adults we’ve probably already begun preparing for the change in seasons-be it clothing, household maintenance, yard work etc. During this transition it can also be helpful to make similar preparations regarding our children’s recent return to school. We can greatly enhance the likelihood of a successful school year and prevent a number of emotional and behavioral challenges with our children by implementing a few simple guidelines.

Whether they are just beginning their academic career in pre-k or are a senior in high school, children of all ages like to have consistency in expectations. Children tend to respond better to requests and corrections when they know what is expected of them. For example, having a set of ‘house rules’ surrounding areas such as homework, visiting with friends or chores will provide a sense of continuity and consistency for your child. Whether they are three years old or thirteen, children want to know what the rules are.

Another strategy that is likely to decrease stress (yours and your child’s) is establishing routines. The nature of those routines will likely vary depending on the age of your child. What is important is that you have clearly outlined what those routines are (e.g. out of bed at 6:30 on school days, breakfast, shower, brush teeth and to the bus stop by 7:30). Having routine is important, knowing what to expect and when to expect it makes it easier for children and adults alike to plan. Within the context of establishing routines you can also teach about the need for flexibility. It is important for children to understand that occasionally there are going to be instances that routines are broken (the car breaks down, schedules change etc.) and to learn how to adjust accordingly without being totally thrown for a loop.

Another key to increasing the likelihood of a successful school year is communication. Open, direct and specific communication with your child helps to lay the groundwork for other parenting strategies. Communicating with our children what our expectations are, what our values are, what things are negotiable and what things aren’t all work to enhance our relationship with our children. Establishing open and regular communication with your child’s school is also another effective way to be proactive in preventing or minimizing issues should they arise.

Capitalizing on those ‘teachable moments’ e.g. when a objectionable commercial or TV show comes on the air or a news story of local importance is mentioned or your child describes an event that happened in school is another effective way to enhance and build upon existing communication. Listening to how your child perceives and experiences these events and then discussing your views and opinions can help to strengthen your current relationship and foster future communication and discussion.

There is no ‘one size fits all’ strategy that is guaranteed to make for smooth sailing as your child begins another school year, nor will every strategy work the same with every child. One of the keys to success is having a varied supply of strategies to rely upon.

As chair person for Cortland Area Communities That Care (CACTC), Director of Prevention Services for Youth at County Mental Health and as a parent of two teenagers, I am firmly committed to and a firm believer in the benefits and potential impact of utilizing preventive, proactive strategies in helping children to navigate another school year. For information about programs offered to families by coalition partners or about opportunities for getting involved with the coalition you can visit the CACTC website at www.cortlandareactc.org.