By Sylvia Merrell

It's Back to School!

Wishing everyone a wonderful Back to School week! A number of parents will be sending their children to "big kid" school - for the first time, for the last "first time", or for another time. Some thoughts on preparation for this time:

- Don't stress the small stuff! Schools may not be sending supply lists out until the first few weeks, some schools provide it.

- Keep the sleep routine! SRMC member, Megan E talks about letting kids stay up later by one hour on Fri/Sat nights, but the same routine makes it an easier transition back to school. (I have not been able to keep this up myself!)

- Back to School pictures: some do it the day before, the day or week after, or not at all. You can do a test run with photos. Or, do something completely different by doing a first day of school (or week!) interview! Co-President, Pauline, does this with her kids by asking the same questions every year, and it's fun to re-watch with the kids! "It is delightful to have this time capture of little voices, likes/dislikes, thoughts as your children grow" (P. Hsu). Some examples can be found here: 23 Fun First Day of School Interview Questions to Ask Your Kids (Free Printable!)

- It's hard to "break in" to a new school - as a kiddo and as a parent! Some people know each other from other contexts (preschool, older kids, sports, extracurricular activities, neighbors). It's fun to reconnect after the summer, reminisce, and also to share our excitement for the kids and families in the next year. Also, reach out to the parent standing to the side, the one who may not know the other parents. They may be new to the school or area, or have their first child in the school. Reach out, grab coffee, share a hello. Thank you to those who did the same for me!

- We all learn as we go! Provide yourself and kiddos grace as you navigate a major shift from summer break to school!

Best wishes for all as some of us transition to Back to School!