The “Back to School” signs have been up in Target and Walmart since June, but the lazy days of summer are rapidly coming to a close, and it really is time to get ready for the new school year. Many think this means ensuring the new backpack is selected and the school supplies are purchased. Check and check. While those items are important, setting your student up for a successful school year also requires preparing their “brain management system” – their Executive Functioning skills. These are the skills that help people plan ahead, stay organized, and complete tasks from start to finish, all while remaining emotionally regulated. No small feat!
Time Management
Transitioning from the unstructured days of summer takes time.
* At least two weeks before school starts, gradually move bedtimes earlier by 15 to 20 minutes every few days.
* Establish and practice a consistent morning routine (including alarms), considering wakeup and departure times.
* Discuss screen time limits early, focusing on the why (like sleep quality and focus) rather than just enforcing a rule (or, worse, stating one and not enforcing it).
Planning and Organization
Children thrive on predictability.
* Keep a family calendar to model planning ahead for school days off and special events.
* Set up designated, organized spaces for homework to clearly separate work time from playtime.
Attentional Control
Rebuild your child’s focus muscle after the summer break.
* Gradually increase daily independent reading time.
* Play puzzles and board games to practice sustained attention.
Problem Solving and Flexibility
* Encourage independence by letting your child brainstorm solutions to challenges.
* Discuss how to stay flexible and navigate new options when plans change.
Emotional Control and Self-Monitoring
A new school year can bring a mix of excitement and anxiety, a range of emotions from the positive to the negative, and everything in between.
* Help your child name their emotions.
* Model a positive growth mindset yourself. Speak about new teachers, classrooms, and friends with curiosity.
* Use the “power of yet,” reminding them that if they can’t do something yet, the upcoming year is their opportunity to learn.
Empower your student with executive functioning skills, a positive attitude, and a growth mindset to get “Back to School” ready – and that new backpack and set of school supplies don’t hurt!
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