One way to make back-to-school feel like fun for children is by organizing their pencil case. This simple act can bring joy and excitement to the process of preparing for the new school year. As Hello! Magazine’s lifestyle writer Georgia Brown recalls, going ‘pencil case shopping’ with her mom before school started was always a highlight. Getting a new pack of fineliners or highlighters and spending the evening organizing it can be a fun activity that eases nerves and sets a positive tone for the upcoming school year.
If your child has spent the summer playing with friends, why not plan a playdate for the last day of the holidays as well? Choosing friends who live nearby can simplify logistics and make the day more enjoyable. Spending time with friends, watching movies, playing games, and indulging in treats can create lasting memories and help children shift their focus from anxiety to excitement about returning to school.
Marking the end of the school holidays with a day trip can be a great way to keep children distracted and engaged before the new term begins. Whether it’s a visit to the swimming pool, a trip to a museum, or an outing to a favorite place, tiring children out with fun activities can prevent them from worrying and help them sleep well on the eve of their return to school.
Reflecting on and celebrating the highlights of the summer holidays can be a wonderful way to spend the last day before school starts. Whether it’s putting together a scrapbook, making a summer video, or simply reminiscing about the fun times shared, sharing positive memories can boost morale and alleviate back-to-school jitters.
Engaging in self-care activities like at-home facemasks, hair treatments, or pedicures can help children feel pampered and special before heading back to school. Taking the time to relax and unwind can reduce anxiety and promote a positive mindset for the new school year.
Baking can be a fun and mindful activity for children on the last day of the holidays. Not only does baking keep young minds occupied, but it also allows them to focus on the present moment, away from worry and distractions. Involving children in baking can be a therapeutic and enjoyable way to ease back-to-school nerves and foster a sense of calm.
Overall, incorporating these strategies into the last day of the summer holidays can help children transition from a state of anxiety to a state of anticipation and excitement for the new school year. By focusing on positive experiences, engaging in enjoyable activities, and promoting self-care, parents can support their children in managing back-to-school anxiety and making the return to school a more positive and enriching experience.