It may seem crazy, but it’s almost time to get ready to go back to school! Summer schedules are a wonderful break, but starting now to get little bodies ready to go back to school will be well worth the effort. Here are 3 ways to get started:

Start Adjusting Bedtime Now

Don’t wait until the week before school to start adjusting bed times! Trying to do too much, too fast may end up backfiring. Instead, start slowly a few weeks in advance. Move up bedtime and the bedtime routine by just 5 minutes a night until you get back to the regular time for school nights.

If you don’t already have a bedtime routine, now is a great time to start one. Repeating the same sequence of events every night before bed can help children get to sleep faster and sleep better throughout the night. Whether it’s a warm bath, story time, a lullaby or all of the above- the choices are yours! The trick is to be consistent.

Get Reading

Reading books can be especially important for little ones that are afraid to go back to school. Be sure to look for books based on your child’s needs – don’t read a book about being anxious to a child who is excited – they could become worried that there’s something to be scared about! Look for books that talk about the routine of school, school rules, or one to calm little nerves. Our favorites are:

This School Year Will be the Best! by Kay Winters

Back to School Rules by Laurie Friedman and Teresa Murfin

Pout Pout Fish Goes to School by Deborah Diesen and Dan Hanna

Shop for School Supplies Together

Even the most nervous kiddo can’t resist the power of new school supplies! Letting your children choose some or all of their supplies can help to give them a sense of control. If letting them choose all the supplies is too overwhelming, have them choose just a few things, like a lunch box or folders.

If school supplies are provided, letting your child choose a new bag, stuffed animal or mat to take to school can be a good alternative. If that’s out of the budget, consider decorating your existing goods. After a good wash, use permanent markers, iron on patches or other stick on items to decorate last year’s backpack and more.

Need some more ideas? Check out our post 5 Cures for the Back to School Blues for more tips!