5 Ways To Get Ready For Back To School

It's that time of the year again for the kids to say goodbye to summer and hello to the school year. With summer coming to an end, the transition to adjusting for the first day of school can be a hard, long journey. But don't fret! We're here to help.

Here are 5 ways to get a smooth start to the school year.

1. Separation Anxiety



Going back to school is stressful for kids of all ages, especially if it's going to be their first time going to school. Talk to your child and let them know that their nervousness or apprehensive feelings about starting school is normal. All children (and even adults) have a difficult time getting back into routine for the school year. The knowledge of knowing that they are not alone in this experience will help your child feel he’s being heard and understood.

If it's going to be the first time that your child will be away from you for a long period of time, do some practice separation. Arrange for your child to spend a few hours at another family member or friend's house while gradually building up to a day.

2. Mo(u)rning



Remember those summer days when you let your kids stay up waaaay past their bedtime? Well, try not to do that anymore. Over the summer, you may have been lucky enough to enjoy the extra snooze time until the afternoon, but it's not such a good idea once school starts. To help ease the transition of getting ready to wake up for school, have your kids (and yourself) go to bed right at bedtime. Whether it's 9 or 10 pm, be strict with the curfew in order to get familiar with the routine.

Next, ensure everything you need for your mornings is ready to go the night before – backpack filled with school supplies, pre-packed lunches and a dapper outfit for the first day of school. Last, don’t forget that school zones are 30km/hr! With every other family heading back to school, be prepared for increased traffic congestion. Time your mornings wisely!

3. A Quiet (And Comfortable) Place



There's nothing tougher for a kid than enjoying the scorching sun with their friends one day and then going back to doing homework when September hits. It's not all bad though - they'll appreciate staying in once winter hits. Until then,  creating an area for your kids to get in the zone and get some studying done or to complete their homework is a great way to help them stay focused. Whether it’s a desk in their room, a dedicated office space, or the kitchen island – having all their supplies ready and organized at home will make the school year a little more convenient.



When you visit Homes by Avi's Victor show home, you can get an idea of decorating your child's room with the idea of having a convenient study space in mind.

4. One On One With Your Great Ones



You might be shuffling one kid to one activity and picking up the other kid from another. Challenge yourself to set aside just 15 minutes per day, per child, to enjoy a quiet activity together. Whether it involves baking some cookies with your little rugrat, going for a walk in the neighbourhood, or gazing at the stars with your little explorer, your children will cherish and enjoy your undivided attention. And both of you will benefit from putting yet another hectic day on hold.

5. The Enemy Of My Child Is My Friend 



Before the school year starts, take advantage of any open houses, orientations, and other meet-and-greet options offered by the school. Try to find a few minutes before or after school to connect one-on-one with your child's teacher. Whether it's sending an introductory email that includes a little greeting or gifting the teacher with some cupcake bribery (we're kidding of course), they'll appreciate the gesture. Who knows, your child might not be the only one who finds a new friend from school. :D

Looking for a new home for you and your family? Check out our new Terrace Park show homes with some of the best recreational amenities, parks and walking trails nearby – including the fantastic Svend Hansen school!