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The sun creeping up later in the morning and then beginning to drift slowly into darkness earlier in the afternoon signals the coming changes of fall.
Soon the rich green leaves will begin to transform into vibrant colors laced with hues of somber brown. Before long, the majestic birds will begin their migratory trek south. These are not the only changes that are occurring, as the start of the school year is a few weeks away.
Most students begin this trek with high aspirations of renewing old friendships and with anticipations of making new ones. However, accompanying this for some (in their mind) is the anxiety and festering of dismay and doubt, thus casting a sense of gloom on the impending approach of the new school year.
To alleviate some of the distress, I have a few suggestions that might help. They are --
-- Orientation: Plan on attending your child's orientation meeting. Find where their classroom is located and the bathrooms as well. If time is available, meet with their teacher.
-- Preparation: Before school begins, start to establish a sleeping routine, where bedtime is consistent. In concert with this is the length of time for sleeping. Students should have at least seven to eight hours of sleep.
-- Morning routine: A few weeks before the start of school, establish a schedule of having clothes set out the night before, along with books, notebooks and other primary writing materials.
-- School supplies: Before shopping for supplies, take an inventory of the remaining items of last year's supplies and, if possible, reuse them. One last suggestion would be to purchase a daily planner that would assist in the organizing of assignments, school events, and upcoming timelines when reports/essays are due.
In the end, the preparation of children from preschool through 12th grade is essential. It will enhance their confidence, organizational skills, and overall well-being before the echoes of the school bell begin to ring.
God bless all of our children, that they may have a safe, successful, and pleasant school year!
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Daniel J. Paul is a retired school administrator. His columns focus on education, old-fashioned family values, relationships and other topics. Contact him at meaningfuldifferences@gmail.com.