Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in albuquerque, NM

Back to School

by Alison

August 03, 2009

Believe it or not, summer is winding down. Albuquerque Public Schools begins on August 20, and I imagine many local preschools begin around that time as well. That means it's time to start getting your child ready for school and a new routine. Here are some ideas to help you make the transition a smooth one.

Plan out a new routine and practice it. Figure out how soon your child will need to start getting ready for school. Know how long it takes you to get there. Start practicing a few days in advance so you can work out any kinks. Don't forget about the younger siblings too - they may need naptimes adjusted to mesh with pick-up and drop-off times. Start easing them into it before the first day of school.

Discuss what to expect. This is especially important if it will be your child's first day at a new school. Read books about school (head to the library's website and search for Kindergarten or Preschool to find a few), but be sure your child knows that their school may not be just like that! Ask your child what she thinks school will be like and correct any misconceptions. Find out if/when your child can meet his new teacher. Prep younger siblings by explaining that big brother/sister won't be around to play all the time once school starts.

Get excited. Shop for new clothes or a new backpack. Drive by your child's school. Talk about the fun things she will get to do, but don't downplay any fears or worries. Plan a special first day of school celebration, this can be as simple as a special after school snack or a trip to the park after school.

What are your ideas for making the summer to school transition a smooth one?  Read more...