Tips to prepare children to tackle new school year

With schools opening in a few days, parents and children are hurrying to get everything in order.

After a long break, it might be difficult to get children back into a routine and prepared to start new grades and take on new curriculum activities.

Experts agree there is no correct way to get children prepared well, but there are a few rules to be more organised.

Educational psychologist Vanessa

Barnes said there were some tricks to prepare children for the academic year:

Firstly, get them into a sleep routine. She said: “A good sleep routine is paramount across all ages but, particularly, among children. Good sleep routines during early childhood are related to better cognitive performance and reduced behaviour problems. The most important element in creating a routine is consistency.”

Secondly, ensure all school items are sorted out. Barnes said parents could help children get organised by putting labels on books for each subject and their names on their belongings.

Thirdly, make a timetable for homework, chores and extracurricular activities. “Most schools provide children with a timetable indicating their daily subjects.

“It is then up to the parents to help their child develop a timetable template to use to insert timeframes for extramural activities, homework, chores, studying, free time and sleep.”

Fourthly, limit playtime by turning off the TV and video games: “It is important to limit the amount of time spent looking at screens. Research has proven that it activates parts of the brain that affect restful sleep, memory and other neurological functions.

“We need to impress the importance of school work coming first.”

Fifthly, attend sports matches and other school events.

“Attending extracurricular shows encouragement and support.

“Attending teacher-parent meetings or staying in contact with your child’s teacher[s] keeps you informed on your child’s academic progress.”