Preparing Your Child for the New School Year

It is essential for every mother to prepare her child for the new school year, not only to help them achieve better grades than the previous year but also to reduce stress for both mother and child and to overcome issues they faced together in the past year. This can be achieved by following several simple practical steps before school starts.

According to educational counselor Hanaa Awadallah, here are key steps to make the back-to-school experience enjoyable for children:

1. Organize Your Child’s Sleep Schedule

• Start adjusting your child’s sleep routine at least a week before school begins.

• Gradually shorten nap times to about one hour in the afternoon (not late in the day) so the child can sleep earlier at night.

• Avoid letting your child watch scary or violent shows to ensure deep, uninterrupted sleep.

• Offer a warm cup of milk and a banana before bed to help them fall asleep faster.

• Reduce the fat content in dinner to avoid discomfort during sleep.

2. Involve Your Child in Choosing the School

• Let your child participate in selecting their school, without feeling forced.

• Important factors to highlight calmly: proximity to home, educational quality, and language learning opportunities.

• For first-time schoolgoers, ensure the child has friends (neighbors or relatives) in the same school to help ease social integration and motivation.

3. Include Your Child in Buying School Supplies

• Allow your child to pick their school bag, stationery, and personal items in colors they like.

• Ensure bags and supplies are age-appropriate and similar to peers to promote a sense of equality.

• Encouraging children to choose their own supplies motivates them to engage with school and feel ownership over their learning.

4. Conduct Medical Checkups Before School Starts

• Schedule medical exams in advance to ensure your child is healthy for school.

• Important tests include:

  • Iron levels: Low iron may cause irritability, mood swings, lack of appetite, and pale skin.

  • Vitamin A: Deficiency can affect vision and hinder reading and writing skills.

  • Vitamin D: Deficiency can cause bone pain, poor posture, and fractures. Ensure adequate sunlight exposure and foods like boiled eggs, or supplements if recommended.

  • Eye check-up: Detect nearsightedness or farsightedness early to prevent learning difficulties.

5. Prepare Your Child Psychologically

• Talk to your child about the new school year days before it begins.

• Discuss the importance of education and help them express fears or concerns.

• Encourage your child to share expectations and goals for the year to build confidence.

• Show enthusiasm for school routines and activities—avoid showing frustration about early mornings or preparing lunches. Your excitement will motivate your child and turn learning into a positive experience.

These practical steps help children adjust smoothly to school life, feel confident, and enjoy learning while minimizing stress for both the child and mother.