Preparing for the school year

School Children's First Day of School

Starting a new school year can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. Here's a guide to help students and parents prepare for a successful return to school:

1. Get organized and establish routines

Create a schedule: Develop a daily routine that balances school, homework, extracurricular activities, and downtime.

Gradually adjust sleep schedules: About two weeks before school begins, start shifting bedtimes and wake-up times to align with the school routine.

Prepare in advance: Pack backpacks, lunches, and select outfits the night before to reduce morning stress.

Practice morning and evening routines: Rehearse the steps for getting ready in the morning and winding down in the evening to create a smoother flow.

2. Gather essential supplies

Check school supply lists: Many schools provide lists of required supplies by grade level.

Restock essentials: Ensure you have an adequate supply of pens, pencils, notebooks, folders, and other items you frequently use.

Consider a comprehensive kit: Back-to-school kits can provide many of the basic supplies needed for various grade levels, potentially saving time and money.

Take advantage of discounts: Look for student discounts offered by retailers like Target, Apple, and Dell on school supplies and technology.

3. Prepare mentally and emotionally

Communicate about school: Start discussing the upcoming school year in a positive way to help ease the transition.

Address concerns: Listen to children's worries about returning to school (new teachers, classmates, homework) and offer reassurance and support.

Familiarize yourself with the school: Attend orientation activities, school walkthroughs, or even drive the route to school and visit the campus.

Promote a healthy lifestyle: Emphasize the importance of adequate sleep, nutritious meals, and regular exercise for mental and physical well-being.

4. Setting up a study space

Choose a quiet location: Find an area in your home with minimal distractions, like a family dining room or office.

Ensure good lighting: Natural light is ideal, but supplement with a desk lamp and overhead lighting for optimal visibility and to reduce eye strain.

Organize materials: Keep pens, pencils, erasers, paper, notecards, highlighters, dictionaries, and calculators close at hand.

Minimize clutter: A tidy and organized study space can improve focus and reduce stress.

5. Engaging in social activities

Attend school events: Social gatherings, dances, and sporting events offer opportunities to meet new people.

Join clubs or sports teams: Find activities that align with your interests to connect with like-minded individuals and build friendships.

Introduce yourself and be friendly: Simple actions like smiling, making eye contact, and asking open-ended questions can initiate conversations.

Be authentic: Embrace your individuality and be yourself when interacting with new people.

Remember, a positive attitude, proactive planning, and open communication can make the back-to-school transition much smoother and set the stage for a successful academic year.

If you are looking for a new home in a particular school district, contact me - let's get started!

Jo Ann S. Stevens

(713) 829-1827

Houston REALTOR

Lane Real Estate

www.JoAnnStevens.info