Back to school preparations are in full-swing and some kids have already started the school year, but preparing for a new school year often involves more than shopping for new clothes or shoes. The first bell of the year rings and the sounds of summer will be replaced by the voices of children ending their summer play and trying to sort out their new school routines. For most children (and parents), going back to school signifies a move from the lazy, hazy days of summer to a more structured routine and poses unique challenges that must be overcome. Children may not always view a new school year with excitement and enthusiasm, which is why we have listed some tips and resources to help make the transition from summer to school easier than you thought possible!

• Talk about the new school year, but don't dwell on it.
• Schedule a get-acquainted meeting with your child's teacher.
• Visit the local public library – although not a classroom, the library environment is conducive to learning and known to spark enthusiasm for reading and exploring new interests
• Begin winding down the summer schedule. Strive for a more consistent schedule, including regular bed and breakfast times.
• Be positive, let your child know that you value education. Talk about learning experiences that you enjoyed as a child.

Resources brought to you by:

Learn more about school readiness and what you can do to encourage children’s early learning in simple ways every day and help them be ready to start school.

Child Care Aware (from the National Association of Child Care Resources & Referral Agencies):

Getting Your Child Ready for Kindergarten (and the World) talks about the skills most children need when they enter kindergarten, what you can do to help your child get those skills most children need when they enter kindergarten, and what to do if you think your child isn’t “ready.”

Washington State Department of Early Learning:

Print a child’s checklist for school readiness

Learn about the work the Department of Early Learning, Office of Superintendent of
Public Instruction and Thrive by Five Washington are doing around a kindergarten readiness assessment for Washington State

Foundation for Early Learning:

Getting School Ready is a free guide for parents, families and caregivers. PDF versions of the guides are available English, Cambodian, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Somali, Spanish and Vietnamese.