It’s-Back-to-School-Time
Advice from the Experts
For those of us with school age kids, we’re well aware of the late August rush to get ready for the school year.
At the end of this article you'll find a couple of links to sites with tips from experts, that may help parents/caregivers navigate this busy time.
But first let’s look at what the real experts say: kids!
NPR asked kids from Grade 2 to Grade 11 to share their best tips for going back to school.
This is their sage advice:
Lucy, grade two, has a tip that will help in and out of school: She says she's learning about how to add coins so she can use money. "It's important to know that, so someone doesn't scam you."
If that wasn’t enough wisdom, she adds another tip, "learn kindness and how to help others. You can have lots of friends if you are kind!"
Ziva, third grade, reflects that school days can feel like they last forever, but eating your whole lunch and enjoying recess to the fullest can help you deal with that feeling.
Levi, a sixth grader says a sharp pencil is essential to get through the school day. "Write neatly or you will have to redo your work." No one wants to do that.
Gemma, also starting grade six, said it's important not to procrastinate or cut corners. That's why she's getting a head start by getting a stronger backpack this year to hold her books.
Sophia, grade seven, organizes and labels her supplies by class and makes sure she has a clean, quiet study space. She adds that a positive attitude and an open mind will help with all classes.
Abram, eighth grade, is already preparing by reading all emails he's received from school ahead of classes starting.
The transition from Elementary School to High School can be hard, sometimes a scary time.
A pro tip comes from Arrow, a grade nine student. Carry a water bottle. "Knowing what to expect is immensely helpful for me and so is having an excuse to step out and refill my water bottle when I need a second."
Selvam, eleventh grade, shares his advice:"Getting a good night's sleep, making sure all school supplies are packed and always being eager to learn help with having a successful school year."
Wise beyond their years with such great advice: Be kind, eat your lunch, preparation is important, get organized and when you need to take a moment, fill up your water bottle! Kids really are the experts.
Check out the full article Students share back-to-school tips with NPR : NPR
Here are some tips to help you and your children make the back-to-school transition. You probably won’t be surprised to see how some of the advice in these articles line up with what the NPR kids shared!
Back-to-School Transition Tips for Every Age of Child (parents.com)