By Julia Beauregard
Hometown Weekly Editor
The back-to-school season brings a host of emotions, adjustments, and preparations for both parents and their children. This annual transition requires a comprehensive approach, addressing not only academic aspects but also prioritizing the mental and emotional well-being of the students. Questions regarding providing children with the necessary mental and emotional resources to prepare for the return to school, establishing accommodating schedules or routines, and ensuring a balanced diet often weigh on the minds of parents during these times of change.
Hometown Weekly reached out to school leaders in Westwood, Dover-Sherborn, Walpole, Medfield, and Needham for insights and guidance to help parents ease their children into the back-to-school transition.
Dave Worthley, the director of Social and Emotional Learning at Medfield Public Schools, emphasized the importance of routines and emotional support for children, stating, "Sleep is extremely important, and vacation sometimes leads to a loosening of bedtimes. Parents should start to get kids to bed earlier as we lead up to a return to earlier wake-ups. Now is a good time to reset limits around screen time. This is always a tough subject. Parents need to model behaviors around this for there to be any positive gain." Worthley stressed the significance of open communication with children, advising parents to "Talk to your kids. Ask them how they feel about the new year. What are they looking forward to? What are they concerned about? Remember that all concerns are valid. Listening is the important variable, not solving every problem."
Dana Plunkett, director of counseling 7-12 at Needham Public Schools, recommended parents to follow their child's lead, stating, "Take your student's lead. If they are excited, inquire what they are looking forward to. If they are apprehensive, ask what concerns they have. Assure them that it's ok to be nervous about something they don't have a frame of reference for, especially if they are starting in a new school." Plunkett also emphasized the importance of assuring children that they are not alone in their concerns and that many adults are there to support their transition.
Brittany Hardiman, Nurse Leader at Medfield High School, provided insights into maintaining a proper diet to support children during the school year, stating, "Breakfast is important but many students are tired and feel rushed in the morning and so they skip breakfast." She suggested having healthy, low-sugar protein bars or prepared overnight oats for breakfast. Hardiman also mentioned that Massachusetts offers free lunch for all students, following health and nutrition guidelines. She advised involving students in the lunch preparation process and making nutritious choices.
The Walpole Middle School Counseling Team stressed the importance of routines during the school year. They recommended setting routines for good habits, including organizing backpacks, packing lunches, charging devices, and picking out clothes in the evening. They also advised setting rules and limits on bringing screens to bed, helping students create schedules that balance homework, extracurricular activities, family time, and relaxation. Consistent bedtime, distraction-free study spaces, and solid homework habits were also encouraged.
Elizabeth McCoy, Dover-Sherborn Schools Superintendent, emphasized the goal of grounding themselves in principles like academic excellence, social-emotional wellness, and student belonging. Parents can work with the advice provided by school leaders to support their children in achieving a happy, healthy, and successful school year.
As parents and students gear up for the back-to-school season, the insights and guidance shared by school leaders provide a valuable roadmap for a successful transition. From nurturing emotional well-being to establishing effective routines and promoting healthy diets, these strategies form the foundation for a fulfilling academic year. By fostering open communication, embracing routines, and making nutritious choices, parents can empower their children to thrive academically, emotionally, and physically. As we embark on this new school year, let's remember that, with the support and collaboration of dedicated educators and engaged parents, we can create an environment where students can truly excel and find belonging in their educational journey.
