August 19, 2013 - Back to School

School starts this week and so I thought I'd share some thoughts on helping our kids make a smooth transition from summer vacation back to school. 

• Leave a note - why not start the day with a note on the mirror in the bathroom or your child's room?  Write it on a piece of paper and tape it to the mirror, write it in lipstick, soap or dry erase marker.  Let your child know how much you love them and how proud you are of them.  What a great way to wake up and start the first day of school that can otherwise be scary, stressful or hard.
• Decorate their breakfast - instead of cereal, why not get up a bit earlier and take the time to make the kids eggs or pancakes that are shaped into the number of the grade they are entering?  Put a candle in it.  Write a note wishing them a great first day of school.  Why not do a little something extra to make their first breakfast for their first day of school just a little extra special?
• Decorate the car - put streamers or balloons on or in the car.  Write a fun message on the window of the car.  The kids will either think it's the most embarrassing ride to school or the coolest ride ever.
• Send a secret encouraging note - my son really enjoys this.  I will occasionally put a little note in his lunch telling him I love him and how proud I am of him.  Write something fun and uplifting.  If your child buys their lunch, then slip a little note into their backpack instead.
• Make lunch more interesting - lunch time sometimes brings stress.  For younger kids, some schools will allow parents to eat lunch with their children.  Bring in a pizza or sandwiches and enjoy lunch with them at school.  If schedules do not allow for this, then you will have to get a bit more creative.  Try cutting their fruit into puzzle piece shapes.
• Welcome your child home - make a big sign saying welcome home and hang it where they can see it immediately upon returning home.  Write in chalk on the driveway or sidewalk.

We can all remember those school days and the different feelings and emotions it brings.  Why not offer a little encouragement and excitement to make your child smile.