...of Working Together as a Family

CTC Readers' Poll:
Transitioning Back to School 

 In the August 1, 2008 issue of the newsletter, Counting the Cost editor 
Nancy Twigg asked readers this question:

"Back-to-school time can be challenging for some families as they try to get back into the swing of school. What strategies do you use to help your kids (and yourself!) get used to the demands of the school year again?"

Responses:

 
"We homeschool, so back to school for us has always been a little different but we have created some traditions. This year my daughter (age 10) would like to have a set uniform for our school hours.  I think it’s a good idea and plan on doing something simple like polo shirts instead of t-shirts and khakis instead of blue jeans. They also like to go out the kitchen door, walk around the yard (maybe around the block this year), and come in the front door to school.  It all helps with the mindset that now it is time for book learning and a more scheduled day.  I found last year that the exercise first thing really helps my son to focus. On our first day back to school, we have a short day, and then we go to the mall to get pictures made in one of the photo booths.  We also run into the office supply store to get a couple of new things.  We also ease back into our routine.  This year we will be starting 2 full weeks before all the public and private schools start back." ~ Susan
 
 
"We do not start school for another month, but I have already begun making my 3 boys (age 6 and twins age 11) go to bed by 8pm, and up at 7am during the week.  We have had many late nights during the summer, but it is time to get started with an earlier schedule. I really don't have to 'wake' them, as they get up on early on their own. Also, we will visit the schools several times at the end of August, so the kids can find their classroom, meet the teacher, find their lockers, etc.  We usually will have an end-of-summer campfire in our backyard where we invite other kids and families from the neighborhood and roast marshmallows." ~ Denise B., Ontario, NY
 
"We make pancakes and waffles and freeze them to have during the first few weeks of school. We also make muffins and sausages. We lay out clothes the night before the first day and put all things needed to leave the house in one area including school bag, lunch money, ID, and of course, homework." ~ Althea

 

Editor's Note: Thanks to all these readers who took time to write!

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