There are many strategies for getting kids ready to go back to school, from gradually moving bedtimes earlier in the evening to buying and organizing school supplies.
But what about getting children mentally prepared, and sending the message that going back to school is good for them?
Here are some quotes and back to school traditions that you can adopt as you and your family prepare for the new school year.
Back to school wisdom
Going back to school might be scary or stressful. Here are some words of wisdom you can share with your kids:
- I know this has been a fun summer, but now it’s time to meet up with your old friends from school, and maybe make some new ones.
- I know you’ll do great this year. You have a wonderful spirit, and so many good things to share.
- Knowledge is like a lamp, and it shines brighter with each new thing you learn.
- This might be hard, but it’s not impossible. We believe in you.
If all else fails, remember this:
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you will go.”
That’s from Dr. Seuss. There’s a good chance your kids will hear his “Oh the Places You’ll Go” at a graduation someday. Why not start them off with this quote?
Back to school traditions around the world
When the first day of school arrives, chances are you’ll pose your kids at the edge of your driveway or on your front steps and post a photo to Facebook.
And that’s fine. In 2017, it’s a back to school tradition that’s as American as apple pie. But we thought we’d share some back to school traditions from other countries. They might get your kids envious – most kids would welcome Germany’s first day of school tradition – or glad they were born in the USA.
Japan
Kids in Japan bring all their school supplies in a hard-sided backpack called a randoseru on the first day of school.
Students who bring their own lunch traditionally pack rice with seaweed sauce and quail eggs, a dish thought to bring good luck on the first day. And because schools don’t allow students to wear outdoor shoes, kids will bring their own pair of slippers.
Holland
Are your kids at an age where they’re embarrassed to have you drop them off at school? Tell them to be glad they’re not in the Netherlands, where parents drop off their kids on eco-friendly cargo bikes, with their kids riding in compartments up front.
Germany
German kids start the school year with a 200-year-old-tradition: receiving a schultuete (shool-too-teh), which translates to “school cone.” This large paper cone is filled with candy, small presents, and school supplies, and can be almost as big as the child.
Russia
The first day of school in Russia is known as the “Day of Knowledge,” in which students will give their teachers bouquets of fresh flowers, and get balloons in return. It’s also a day where kids wear formal attire to school and attend special ceremonies to start the year.
India
If you were in India, your child would mark the start of the new school year by getting gifts on praveshantoshavan, or “Admission Day.” And because the start of the academic year coincides with monsoon season, those gifts usually include a new umbrella.
Before we go, we should mention another – unofficial – back to school tradition: letting your kids have some downtime.
If you’re looking for a way to help your child unwind in those first few stressful days – and in the days beyond – Swingset & Toy Warehouse can help.
Visit us online or at any of our locations to find swing sets, trampolines, and basketball hoops. After the rigors of adjusting to a school day schedule, your kids will enjoy having a way to unwind at home.
