7/8/11

Halfway through the year, halfway through summer…

There’s just over a month left until the new school year begins, so now’s the time to start thinking about back-to-school preparations; to say the least, it’s a challenge to try to do everything in the last week of summer vacation! Here are some ideas to help ensure a smooth transition from summer to school year for you and your children.

First, schedule any necessary doctor’s appointments for before the first day of classes. Whether your child is due for immunizations or an optometry exam, or in need of a sports physical to participate in athletics, it is best to get them done sooner rather than later. Doing so will prevent your child from missing classes, practices or games. Also, be sure that all of your contact information is current with the school in case we need to reach you.

Second, check the Liberty website for supplies your child will need, as well as uniform requirements. Back-to-school shopping can be quite time-consuming, so splitting it into two separate days can make things considerably more manageable. One way to do this is to shop for supplies on one day, while saving clothes shopping for another day. Plus, don’t forget to keep an eye out for back-to-school sales and specials – there’s no shortage of them around this time of year!

Finally, about a week before the first day of classes, start getting your child acclimated to what will be his or her sleep schedule during the school year. This is important, as it will take at least a few days to fully adjust to the change, especially if their summer sleep schedule is significantly different. Be sure to also review the schedule they had last year and make changes as necessary.

Following these few simple steps will not only ensure a calmer end to the summer for your family, but will also position your child for success in the new school year right from the first day (which, by the way, will be on Wednesday, August 10). Equally important, however, is to be sure that you and your family continue to enjoy each day left of summer break!

To continued learning,

Raena Janes