As summer draws to a close, Philadelphia parents are being encouraged to begin the shift back to a school‑year schedule before the first bell rings. Dr. Paul Kesselman, director of Kesselman Clinical Associates, shared practical steps families can take to help children adjust without stress.
Practice the morning routine early
Dr. Kesselman suggests that a few days before school begins, families should rehearse the typical school morning. “You can practice getting up, showering, having breakfast and packing the backpack,” he said. “It may feel odd to do this when school isn’t in session, but it helps an anxious child feel more comfortable when the real day arrives.”
Gradually shift bedtime and wake‑up times
One of the biggest challenges for children returning from a relaxed summer schedule is the change in sleep patterns. The expert recommends moving bedtime earlier in small increments, allowing the body’s internal clock to align with the upcoming school schedule. This gradual approach reduces the shock of a sudden change and supports better focus during class.
Avoid last‑minute travel stress
Families returning from summer vacations should aim to be home at least a few days before school starts. Dr. Kesselman warned that arriving home on a Sunday night only to face a Monday first‑day can create “Sunday night scaries” for children, making the transition unnecessarily difficult.
Complete summer assignments early
Many schools assign reading or math work over the break. Dr. Kesselman advises parents not to leave these tasks until the final days before school. Setting up a schedule to complete assignments ahead of time gives children a sense of accomplishment and reduces the pressure of a rushed start.
Support emotional readiness
Beyond logistical preparation, the psychologist emphasized the importance of emotional support. Parents should talk openly about any worries their children may have and reassure them that feeling nervous is normal. Simple conversations, combined with the practical steps above, can build confidence and reduce anxiety.
Key takeaways for Philadelphia families
- Start practicing the school morning routine several days before classes begin.
- Shift bedtime earlier in 15‑minute increments to match school wake‑up times.
- Return from vacations with a buffer day or two before the first day of school.
- Complete summer reading or math assignments well before the deadline.
- Maintain open dialogue about children’s feelings and provide reassurance.
By implementing these strategies, Philadelphia parents can help their children transition smoothly into the new academic year, setting the stage for a successful and less stressful school experience.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
