Once the excitement of the first school week fades, the reality of early mornings, homework and packed schedules can hit hard. Getting back into a school routine isn’t always easy for kids or parents.
By finding small ways to make each day more engaging, you can help your child look forward to school long after the new notebooks lose their shine. Here are a few simple tips:
Create a School Countdown for Special Events.
Just because the first day has passed doesn’t mean countdowns have to end. Build anticipation for events like field trips, concerts or school spirit days. A simple paper chain, sticker chart or calendar can help kids look forward to what’s next and spark conversations about upcoming activities.
1. Let Kids Personalize Their Supplies
Even after school starts, kids can still update and customize their gear. Set aside a weekend afternoon for “supply decorating”—add stickers to notebooks, swap out pencil cases or create fun labels for lunch containers. These small changes can give a mid-year boost to school-day enthusiasm.
2. Add Fun to Daily Routines
Back-to-school often means a rigid schedule, but a little flexibility can make a difference. Try a walk home with a favorite playlist, an after-school snack picnic in the yard, or a five-minute “show and tell” about the best part of their day. These small traditions help turn regular days into memorable ones.
3. Celebrate Small Wins
Look for reasons to celebrate progress—whether it’s finishing a big project, making a new friend or remembering to pack everything for the week. A special snack, extra playtime or a quick note in their lunch can go a long way in keeping school days positive.
4. Prioritize Hygiene to Help School Routines Run Smoothly
A few easy habits can help prevent the spread of illness-causing germs and keep kids from missing out on important classroom activities. Encourage handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. To keep your child engaged, try singing a fun song while scrubbing. To kill 99.9% of viruses and germs,* parents can use Lysol Disinfecting Wipes to wipe down backpacks, shoes and lunchboxes after school.
With a bit of creativity, the excitement of back-to-school can last long past the first week. By blending engaging activities with practical routines, you can help your child approach each day with curiosity, confidence and a smile.
Want more tips and resources for a fresh start this school year? lysol.com/here-for-healthy-schools.
*when used as directed
National PTA does not endorse any commercial entity, product or service. No endorsement of Lysol is implied.
