Attend an event:
It is the beginning of the school year, which means new teachers, new classrooms and new friends. Attending a back-to-school picnic or open house before the first day will allow your children to meet their teachers, socialize with their new classmates and become familiar with the school building.
Go shopping:
Before sending your children off to school, make sure they are stocked up on the necessary school supplies. Make this shopping trip a fun one by letting your children each pick out a new backpack or new outfit, as well as fun, colorful school supplies that will make them excited to learn.
Make a study spot:
Children often need motivation to do their homework after school. Before the first day, spend some time making a creative study spot somewhere in your home where your children can complete their daily homework. Provide fun supplies as motivation to finish assignments.
Bake a cake:
Spend some time baking a cake with your children. Use icing to write their names and grades, and then let your children add their own decorations. Before school, take a photo of your children with the cake. After school, enjoy this treat as you sit down with your family and discuss everyone’s first day.
Send a note:
The first day can be nerve-wracking. There’s a good chance that your children will begin missing you as the day progresses. While making their lunches, slip short, uplifting notes into their lunch bags. When your children find comforting notes from their parents, it will give them the encouragement to get through the afternoon.
Amanda Blue is an intern for KC Parent Magazine. She is a sophomore at the University of Kansas where she is studying journalism.