Back to School from Toddlers to Great-Grandmothers

By Raven Howell

The first day of school arrives. Are you nervous? Excited? Seasons change. A new school year always churns up adjustments and overhauls—and it’s a time of new beginnings and adventures.

Toddlers will more readily get in the groove of a preschool or daycare program if you and your child visit the facility or meet with the teachers ahead of time. Just that small “hello” before being dropped off by themselves will help guard your little one against shock or surprise at the new surroundings.

Kindergarten? How fun! During the back-toschool month, hopefully, you and your child can read together. Explore some of the wonderful picture books with the “first day of school” theme, demonstrating what happens, and what to expect. This may instigate conversations about anxieties you can assist in squelching.

Young ladies in high school and college already know what back to school entails, so get into a nofuss comfort zone. Choose the convenience of simple mascara and lip gloss if you wear make-up and use your favorite scented shampoo to feel refreshed and confident. Give yourself an inner smile, and you’ll start off on the right foot!

Whether you’re a SAHM, single mom, or working mom, I know from my own experience, things run smoother and more quickly if you set up your young child’s school clothes and prepare their snack or lunch the evening before. Remember to add a happy note or fun doodle in their bag to surprise them during their school day!

If you’re going to a job, or back to school yourself, coordinate ahead of time the proper childcare for the hours you’re not available.

When it comes to childcare, grandmothers are often enlisted. Grandmothers entrusted to transport or look after grandchildren should plan on extra rest and relaxation outside of that time frame. Also, back to school signifies updating any of the kids’ activities and toys you’ve had the previous year.

My own mother, a great grandmother, heeds her walking schedule during back-to-school days. A gentle stroll to her mailbox is adjusted to a time when school buses are not busy bustling around the neighborhood. It’s fun, too—school start-up means no interruptions while watching her favorite tv shows, and later, lots of Facetime to find out how everyone’s day was.

We work best when we work together! Happy back to school!

Raven Howell writes stories and poetry for children. Her books have garnered honors such as Creative Child Magazine’s Best Book of the Year, Mom’s Choice Award, and US Book of Review’s Most Recommended. Her poetry is published in children’s magazines, she writes the “Book Bug” column for Story Monsters Ink , and authors storybooks for ReadingGate. Her book, Seasons , was published this year by Jan-Carol Publishing. Find out more at www.ravenhowell.com.