5 fun ways to include your child in back-to-school prep

In this article:  

• why it’s important to include your child in back-to-school prep 
• 5 easy and fun tips to involve your kids 
• free back-to-school download to help you get started 

Back-to-school season? Already?! 

It might feel like you’re just now recovering from the “Maycember” madness of end-of-year activities—and now you’re reading a blog about getting ready to do it all over again. We feel your pain. 

The truth is, the earlier you start preparing (both mentally and practically), the smoother the transition can be—for both you and your child. And involving your child in the process doesn’t just help things go more smoothly—it can also support their mental health. 

“When children feel like they have some positive control over their lives, they tend to have better mental wellness,” shares Emily Weitz, On Our Sleeves expert. 

That’s why the experts at On Our Sleeves are sharing five simple ways to help your child feel included in the back-to-school season. 

5 ways you can include your child in getting ready for back-to-school 

1. Offer choices for school supplies. Bring them with you to get their school supplies. It is okay for you to steer them in the direction of what supplies fit in your budget, and then let them pick out the pattern or color of the item. 
2. Let them show their style! Encourage them to pick out their first day of school outfit or hairstyle. Give them a few options of clothes within the dress code and let them decide! 
3. Include them in conversations about the routine.  For example, you can ask them to: 

• Pick the song or sound the alarm goes off to 
• Let you know some ideas for breakfast choices 
• Share options for their lunch 
• Choose their favorites snacks that you can pack through the year 

1. Pack up together! Have them help you pack up their supplies for the first day and if they are old enough, write their name on their school items. Use the back-to-school guide checklist from On Our Sleeves to make sure everything is ready to go!
2. Countdown to the end of summer and the beginning of school. Make an end of summer “countdown” with simple and fun things they want to do before school starts. 

Remember—your child will pick up on your energy. If you stay calm, positive, and encouraging, they’re more likely to feel the same way about heading back to school. If they seem worried or don’t share your excitement, take time to check in. Ask what’s on their mind, talk through any lingering concerns from last year, and remind them of the good moments they’ve had at school, too. 

Free downloads for back to school: conversation starters and

more!

As you and your family prepare for the back-to-school season, On Our Sleeves has plenty of resources to support you and your child through this important transition.

Download the Back-to-School Checklist or the Back-to-School Conversation Starters to spark meaningful talks about how your child is feeling about the new school year.

Still have some summer left? Make the most of it with our Summer Connection Calendar and read our blog on creating a structured yet fun summer for your kids.

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