Back To School Tips

Back-to-school tips for a smooth start

Create a launch pad for items your child needs for school each day—a space for backpacks, lunch kits, shoes, jackets and school assignments. This will help keep your child organized and ease the morning rush.

Parents of Primary Students:

• Confirm start times for the first day of school and the entire first week.
• If your child is attending a new school, check with the school board to ensure your child has the information and identification needed for registration.
•  Adjust your children’s bedtime and wake-up times a week before the start of school to prepare them for the back-to-school routine.
• Get your children in the habit of choosing their clothing the night before to help the morning begin calmly.
• Find out how your child’s teacher likes to communicate with parents and take advantage of contact opportunities.
• You can make an important contribution by volunteering at your child’s school. Contact your local board of education or the Parent Advisory Council to find out about volunteer opportunities.

Parents of Intermediate/Middle School Students:

• Talk enthusiastically to your children about the new school year, reminding them of the fun they will have with friends and the exciting new things they will learn.
• Go over schedules with your children to make sure they are registered in the correct classes.
• It is important that children feel comfortable attending a new school. Help your children locate classrooms and key areas such as the gym, library and cafeteria before the start of school.
• Make sure your child knows how to get from one class to another on time.
• Continue to find ways to be involved in the school community as this is a great way to get to know your children’s teachers and other parents.

Parents of Secondary Students:

• Discuss courses and programs with your child, their teacher and the principal. Ensure your child will meet graduation requirements.
• If your teenagers are starting at a new school, encourage them to arrange a visit to locate classrooms, the gym, cafeteria and library so they will feel more comfortable on their first day.
• Ask your teenagers to review their schedules and make an appointment with a school counsellor if they are concerned about possible conflicts or mistakes.
• Post your child’s schedule of assignments in a central place and include dates of exams and other activities.