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As the sun sets on July and August, the relaxed rhythm of summer vacation gives way to the familiar anticipation of a new school year. For many students, this transition can feel jarring, especially if the last two months were filled with late nights, endless video games, and a complete break from all things academic.
Going from a world of freedom to one of schedules and study can make a student feel rusty, lazy, and disinterested in what school has to offer. The apathetic brain, accustomed to a steady diet of screens and social media, finds it challenging to re-engage with structured learning.
This adjustment period is crucial, as a rough transition can set the tone for the entire school year, potentially impacting academic performance. The good news is that with a little preparation and a few smart strategies, both students and parents can make the shift from vacation mode to back-to-school readiness seamless. By gradually reintroducing healthy habits and academic routines, you can hit the ground running in September, ensuring a successful and productive start.
15 Ways to prepare for school after vacation
1. Re-establish a consistent sleep schedule
For weeks, bedtime may have been a suggestion, not a rule. The first and most critical step in preparing for school is to reset your body clock. Start by moving your bedtime and wake-up time back by 15-minute increments each night. Aim to go to bed early enough to get at least 8 to 10 hours of sleep, which is vital for focus and memory.
Parents, you can assist by creating a peaceful, screen-free environment in the evenings and gently waking your child at the same time each morning. Consistency is key here; a regular sleep schedule will not only make waking up for the first day of school easier but will also improve concentration and cognitive function, making the return to learning far less painful.
2. Gradually reduce screen time
During the summer, video games, television, and social media might have been a staple. It’s time to slowly wean yourself off this constant digital stimulation. Set clear limits on screen time, starting a week or two before school begins. Replace some of this time with offline activities that engage your brain in different ways.
Parents, work with your children to set these boundaries, perhaps designating screen-free hours or using a timer. Encourage them to engage in board games, puzzles, or creative hobbies. This gradual reduction will help your brain adjust to a slower pace, improving focus and attention span, which are essential for sitting through class lectures and completing homework.
3. Reintroduce reading for pleasure
Since school closed, many students haven’t touched a book. To get your brain back into an academic mindset, start reading for pleasure again. Choose books, magazines, or articles on subjects you genuinely enjoy, whether it’s fantasy novels, sports biographies, or science fiction. The goal is to make reading a relaxing habit, not a chore.
Parents, set aside a specific time each day for family reading, even if it’s just for 15 minutes. This simple act re-engages the brain’s language and comprehension centres, making the transition back to textbooks and assignments much smoother and helping your child get back to a regular reading routine.
4. Create a dedicated study space
A quiet, organised area for homework and studying is a crucial part of a successful school year. Find a spot in your home that is free from distractions and equip it with all the necessary supplies: pens, paper, calculators, and a comfortable chair. A dedicated space signals to your brain that it’s time to focus on academic tasks.
Parents, help your child organise this space and keep it tidy. Ensure it’s a place where they feel comfortable and can work without interruption. This simple act of preparation helps build a positive association with schoolwork and creates a sense of routine and readiness for the year ahead.
5. Review last year’s material
To shake off the academic rust, spend some time reviewing key concepts from the previous school year. This can be done by looking over old notes, doing a few practice problems in math, or reading some chapters from old textbooks. This gentle review will jog your memory and help you feel more confident about the upcoming year.
Parents, you can help by making this a collaborative activity. Quiz your children on subjects they found challenging or work through a few problems together. This is not about perfect scores but about reactivating those dormant skills so they are not forgotten entirely.
6. Start the healthy eating habits now
Summer might have been filled with unhealthy snacks, fast food, and soda. Getting back into a routine of eating nutritious, balanced meals will provide your brain with the fuel it needs to function at its best. Start incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins into your diet a few weeks before school starts.
Parents, lead by example. Stock the fridge with healthy options and involve your children in preparing meals. A well-nourished body and mind are better equipped to handle the demands of a new school year, improving energy levels and concentration.
7. Get back into a physical activity routine
Playing outside with friends is a great summer activity, but the start of school can often lead to a more sedentary lifestyle. To combat this, establish a consistent physical activity routine before school begins. Whether it’s a daily walk, a sport, or a home workout, regular exercise is essential for stress relief and cognitive function.
Parents, encourage your children to continue being active. Sign them up for a sport or plan family activities that get everyone moving. Physical fitness is a key component of overall well-being and helps to improve focus and learning abilities.
8. Organise school supplies and uniforms
There’s nothing more chaotic than a last-minute scramble for school supplies. Take the stress out of the first week by organising everything you need well in advance. Make a list of all your required materials, from notebooks to pens, and ensure your school uniform is clean and ready to go.
Parents, involve your children in this process. Allowing them to choose their own supplies can build a sense of excitement and ownership over their education. This practical step eliminates a major source of stress on the first day and helps everyone feel prepared.
9. Set goals for the new school year
Instead of viewing the after vacation period with dread, get excited about the new year by setting a few personal goals. These can be anything from aiming for a higher grade in a specific subject to trying out for a new club or making new friends. Having something to look forward to can be a powerful motivator.
Parents, sit down with your children and discuss their aspirations. Help them create a plan to achieve these goals and provide encouragement. This proactive approach turns a time of potential anxiety into an opportunity for motivation and growth.
10. Reconnect with classmates and teachers
Reaching out to a few friends from school can help ease the social anxiety that often comes with the first day back. A simple text or phone call to a friend can make a big difference. Similarly, sending a brief email to a teacher to express excitement about their class can help build a positive relationship from the very beginning.
Parents, encourage your children to connect with their peers and to communicate with their teachers. These small steps can make the school environment feel more welcoming and familiar, reducing the feeling of being a stranger in a well-known place.
11. Practise time management skills
Summer’s lack of a schedule can lead to poor time management. A week or two before school starts, begin practicing by setting specific times for activities. For example, assign one hour for reading, one hour for a quick review, and then two hours for a fun activity. This structured practice will train your brain to handle a schedule again.
Parents, help your children by creating a visual schedule or using an app to track time. This will help them understand the importance of balancing responsibilities and fun, a skill that is crucial for academic success.
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