Summer is winding down, meaning the return to school for area youth is just about a month away.

This likely sparks mixed emotions for parents and children alike, running the gamut from sadness to overwhelming joy.

There is certainly an adjustment period but getting a head start can help make that transition go smoother for everyone involved.

The key is to plan ahead.

Being proactive to see what supplies are needed or buying the basic items now can provide the necessary time to shop for the best deals. Back-to-school needs can be an expensive proposition and every penny saved can make a difference.

Making a change in bed times and wake up times now can help make this an easier return. Our bodies adjust quickly but it is important children have a chance to adjust.

If your summer activities have not included an educational component now would be a good time to start in order to help ensure time off hasn’t been too detrimental to the education process.

Now is also a perfect time to start thinking about after-school routines, homework schedules and healthy lunch and snack options.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these tips for making the return a little easier:

> Remind your child that there are probably a lot of students who are uneasy about the first day of school. This may be at any age. Teachers know that students are nervous and will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible.

> Point out the positive aspects of starting school such as seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Refresh the positive memories about previous years, when your child may have returned home after the first day with high spirits because her or she had a good time.

> Find another child in the neighborhood with whom your student can walk to school or ride on the bus.

> If it is a new school for your child, attend any available orientations and take an opportunity to tour the school before the first day.

> If you feel it is needed, drive your child (or walk with him or her) to school and pick her or her up on the first day.

Thinking ahead like this doesn’t mean families shouldn’t enjoy these final weeks of summer and fit some fun in there, but taking a little time now will help ensure a great start to a successful school year — for students and parents alike.

 

Opinions expressed are those of the editorial board consisting of Publisher Michael Caldwell and editors Ambrosia Neldon, Craig Haupert, Ted Yoakum and Scott Novak.