Labor Day is just around the corner, and that means the first day of school is fast upon us. Whether you have children at home or not, everyone’s schedule changes when school is back in session – there are more people on the roads, and the morning commute takes on a different tone. Here in Northern Virginia, where successful commuting is an art form, be especially vigilant around school buses and crosswalks as young commuters may dart out unexpectedly and specialized traffic laws apply.
If you do have children at home, preparing in advance for the first day of school can help make the transition easier. Here are a few tips from Parent Further that may make that first day a piece of cake.
- Get back into bedtime routines before the first day.
- Plan and shop for healthy breakfasts and lunches in advance.
- Use your child's suggested supply list to streamline back-to-school shopping.
- Create a quiet, well-stocked homework center in your home where your student can complete assignments.
- Put together outfits in advance with your child to minimize morning fashion selection time.
- Keep your child's backpack light - no more than 10-20% of your student's body weight - and encourage your child to wear the backpack as intended with both straps supporting its weight.
- Prepare younger children for social situations at school such as making new friends, sharing classroom supplies, and interacting with older kids.
- Have a safety talk with your child whether he or she will be riding the bus, commuting with you, or traveling alone.
Prepare yourself for back-to-school, too. Be ready to get involved whether it’s being a classroom volunteer or simply keeping in touch with your child’s teacher about your student’s education and social development. Fairfax County Public Schools automatically enrolls parents in the Keep In Touch notification system, a means of passing on information about emergencies, delayed openings and school closings, attendance, and outreach messages including specific news and announcements from your child's school. In addition, the website contains all of the information you’ll need to get the school year off to a good start.
Fairfax County is an excellent place to raise a family, and owning your own home will give you an opportunity to be a solid part of it. All of us here at the Sullivan Group are happy to help you find the perfect home for you and your family. Contact my office at 703-222-3300 or speak with me directly on my cell at 703-268-6380, or by email at csullivanrealty@gmail.com.
Comments(0)