A few simple rules will make 'back to school' a piece of cake

By Kristin Bishop

July 11, 2005 | With summer quickly coming to a close, a lot of students, whether college or kindergarten bound, have a handful of questions about the back-to-school experience. Whether it's hitting all the back to school sales, stocking up on crayons and glue sticks, selecting the perfect college, or meeting your new teacher or professors, back-to-school time can cause a lot of stress.

Following are some tips on how to get the most out of your schooling experience, ranging from a university level to the playground of preschool. It is crucial to select a school that makes you feel s safe and offers you a comfortable learning environment. It is also important to select a school that provides each student with an opportunity to grow and participate.

First, make sure to take a look around the campus of your new school before the first day. This tip is for students of all ages. Students that have just graduated high school and have chosen and registered for college should take time to familiarize themselves with their new campus. Obtaining a class schedule and doing a walk through is always a good idea that will prevent any unnecessary stress the first day of class. It is also good to locate a local restaurant or the universities cafeteria in case time does not allow you to travel off of campus. Locating the campus shuttle and designated parking areas for students is also a critical part of becoming a new university student. This first tip is also for those planning to attend an elementary or high school. Familiarizing yourself with your new classroom, teacher, and the administrator's office is an important part of heading back to school. Parents need to make sure children feel comfortable with their surroundings and aware of their location before the first day of school. By taking a look around and becoming a master of your new school campus "back to school" time will be a much easier adjustment.

Second, be sure to ask questions. While you're taking a look around make sure to locate a principal or administrator that is willing to answer the countless questions you will surely have. For elementary and high schools be sure to ask about the safety regulations and discipline policies that are set in place. It is important for both the parent and student to be aware of these policies and willing to uphold them at all times. It will also prevent stress by assuring the child that they will be protected and that policies are enforced. For both high school and college level students, asking questions about specific teachers and professors is very helpful. Selecting educators that fit your individual personality and needs will be to your benefit. It is also critical to meet with a counselor and ask question after question about the specific requirements needed to graduate in a timely manner. As back to school time approaches each student needs to remember the old adage, "There's no such thing as a bad question". Asking questions will only lead to answers and answers will lead to a confident and knowledgeable student.

Third, get involved in the school community. To make the most of your back to school experience get involved in student government, clubs, intramurals, or even a study group. Involvement in campus activities offers countless benefits that will help create a stress-free back to school experience. It helps students of all ages, from college to elementary, make friends and meet peers that have similar interests. Parents of young students can also contact the local school board or the Parent Advisory Council at the child's school for volunteer opportunities. When parents become involved and aware of upcoming school activities they can encourage their child's involvement, which will only better the child's experience and adjustment to change.

Fourth, start a routine. It is important to slowly bring on change, especially when young children are involved. By slowly changing bed time or creating a designated study or reading time for children, they can slowly start making the changes needed for the adjustment from summer to the classroom. Instead of abruptly changing their schedule to involve an early rise and late-night studying, it will be beneficial to their health and well-being to start a routine, or make changes toward a routine, a few weeks before school begins. For soon-to-be college students who will be attending school and attempting to hold down a job, getting into a routine is a must. It is a good idea to start the new job a few weeks before the first day of school, in order to get in the groove and establish a routine that works for you.

Lastly, stay positive. Parents should acknowledge and talk to your children about the feelings they may experience as the school year approaches. It is important to remind them of the friends they will meet, and the activities they will get the opportunity to be involved with. If each student remains positive, excited to learn, and open to change they are bound to succeed.

Following these simple back to school tips will help any school-bound student, whether you're new to a university or entering the third grade, exciting new experiences await. If each students stays positive, acquaints themselves with their new school, and begins a routine they feel comfortable with "back to school" time will be a piece of cake.

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