Returning to Schools: How to Prepare Your Children

Helping your children prepare for returning to school doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a few minor adjustments, your kids will be ready to transition back into full-time learning mode after summer vacation activities.

Returning to schools will again be a concern with COVID-19, which worries parents and school staff. Following these tips will help your family smoothly transition into the fall semester. 

Don’t Put Off Buying School Supplies

Many schools require uniforms. If your child is not accustomed to wearing school attire, have them try on the outfits periodically in the weeks leading up to the first day of school. Preparing for school involves letting your kids know how to clean and put on their uniforms.

If your child has outgrown their uniform, testing them out in the weeks before school starts will give you the time to assess whether you need to buy new clothes.

Once you know that your kids’ clothes fit, use self-adhesive labels or a permanent marker to put your child’s initials on everything taken to school. Putting names on lunchboxes, bags, and other items can help your child find lost items more quickly. 

Help Your Child Become Familiar with the New School

School orientations offer an excellent opportunity to help your kids become excited about the fall semester. Some kids may have apprehension or anxiety about new school buildings, so the more time spent in the new school, the better. COVID-19 has added to that stress level, although kids often surprise us with their resiliency. 

Orientation also allows kiddos to meet their new teachers. If your child is still in grade school, you can visit the campus playground during the summer. That way, returning to school won’t seem like such an uncertainty.

Start Breaking Late-Night Habits

A sleep-deprived student is less productive. Although it is usual for children and teens to start sleeping in during the summer, shifting sleep cycles should be done gradually.

Start by reminding your kids to brush their teeth and wash their faces early in the evening. Then, gradually move the bedtime earlier and earlier in the weeks leading up to school. You’ll want everyone back on school time one week before the first day of school. 

Get Excited About Returning To School

Preparing children for school should be a fun and exciting experience. Talk about the upcoming school year with excitement and optimism.

Discuss all the fun things that will bring, such as new friends, a friendly new teacher, and a private locker room. Prepping children for school requires addressing their concerns so they have a positive outlook on their fall semester. 

Returning to School Takes Planning

You’re not alone if you are apprehensive about children returning to school. Many parents share some of the same concerns as their children. 

We’re parents. We’ll miss our kids, but they must be prepared to run the ground late this summer.

Unlock valuable parenting insights by visiting Qwery M’s family life page—you won’t want to miss it!

Last updated on February 13th, 2026 at 08:01 pm