Ready, Set, Go!

A new school year is nearly here, and kids are simultaneously nervous and excited. We have some quick suggestions for students preparing for a new school year. Helping our students succeed is the SpiderSmart Way!

  • Focus on the positives. Think of the excellent opportunities such as seeing old friends, making new friends, participating in sports or music practices or art projects, and being determined to raise a grade from last year or learn more about a favorite subject.
  • Talk about the new school year. Share your thoughts with parents and friends. For example, feeling nervous is normal. Talking to others will help soothe those nerves and reinforce the fact that you are not alone.
  • Clean up your study area. Simply cleaning your desk or room can seriously help you start anew without clutter all around you or in your brain. Sure, it will be a mess again by late September, but it’s still a great easy way to ready yourself for this school year.
  • Figure out your routine. You probably need to change your summer sleep habits. Know when you need to sleep and what time to set your alarm. Know how long it takes you to get ready in the morning. Think through what you avoid starting each day already behind and in such a rush just to get out of the house.
  • Memorize your schedule for a typical school week. Know your ideal sleep schedule. Know what days you have other activities (study groups, sports, music lessons, tutoring) either in or outside of school. Know if you are taking a bus, being picked up by family and driven, or walking to where you need to go.
  • Get the supplies you need. You probably need pencils and paper and pens and maybe paints, erasers, or even paperclips. Sometimes teachers have lists of what you need. Of course, you may want some new cool clothes, and if that’s OK with your parents, then you can have a lot of fun selecting new T-shirts, blouses, jeans, or shoes. You probably need a new backpack too!

You have parents, friends, siblings, and SpiderSmart to help you prepare for a great new school year! Let’s go!