Kids in the Alpine School District are back to school on Wednesday, Aug. 19. The start of a new school year can bring lots of stress, anxiety and pressure to both students and parents as they suddenly transition from a slow-paced, relaxed summer vacation to a rigid class schedule with homework and tight deadlines.
Here are some tips to get you and your kids adjusted as smoothly as possible.
EASE INTO A NEW BEDTIME ROUTINE
A full night’s rest is critical to a child’s ability to learn and can help avoid behavioral, learning and attention problems at school. Insufficient sleep can also increase risks of other health issues such as depression, hypertension, diabetes and obesity. However, suddenly changing your kid’s bedtime by an hour or two can be a nightmare of its own. Incremental changes of 15 to 30 minutes in the nights leading up to the first day of school are best. Cutting off screen time at least an hour before bed can also help their brain to wind down and allow better production of natural sleep hormones.
PREPARE THE NIGHT BEFORE
Lay clothes out, pack bags and prepare lunches the night before. In the chaos of the morning it can be easy to forget supplies, lose a shoe or walk out the door hungry. Try keeping breakfast simple as well, and plan what you might prepare the evening prior.
MANAGING ANXIETY
Kids are not always thrilled to return to school. Some may harbor some anxiety or fear, especially if they are entering a new school. Checking in with them with specific questions about their feelings and concerns the night before and the afternoon or evening after their first day can be a good way to help them manage that anxiety. As a way to make their first day a more positive experience, consider having their favorite dinner the night before or throwing a special snack into their lunch. Attending an open house or simply driving by the school to establish an early sense of familiarity could also be beneficial.
Save the Date
VINEYARD ELEMENTARY
Preschool/Kindergarten Open House – Aug. 24, 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
First Day of Preschool/Kindergarten – Aug. 25
Picture Day – Sept. 23
TRAILSIDE ELEMENTARY
First Day of Preschool/Kindergarten – Aug. 25
Picture Day – Sept. 25
OREM JR. HIGH
PTSA Meeting – Aug. 24, 9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Student Photos/ID Cards Issued – Aug. 25
OREM HIGH
Student School Pictures – Aug. 27
MOUNTAIN VIEW HIGH
Western Welcome Dance – Aug. 21, 9:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Picture Day – Aug. 24-25
