30 Tips to help your child have their best school year!
Posted: August 14, 2025
Personal Best parents have always done an amazing job getting their children ready for the school year ahead. Here are a list of 30 best practices that have been shared with us over the years.
- Reestablish a consistent sleep schedule – Begin adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times 1–2 weeks before school starts so the transition isn’t a shock to your child’s system.
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Create a morning routine practice week – Rehearse getting up, dressed, and out the door at school time.
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Set academic and personal goals together – Write them down and post them somewhere visible.
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Organize a dedicated homework space – Keep it clutter-free and stocked with supplies.
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Plan healthy lunches and snacks – Prep items in advance for quicker mornings.
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Practice the school commute – Walk, bike, or drive the route at least once.
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Refresh school supplies creatively – Let your child decorate folders or notebooks.
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Read daily – Choose a mix of fiction and nonfiction.
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Review math skills through games – Use card games or puzzles for practice.
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Discuss positive friendships – Role-play how to handle peer pressure.
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Build a responsibility chart – Include schoolwork, chores, and personal care.
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Attend back-to-school events – Introduce your child to teachers and classmates early.
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Limit screen time gradually – Reduce by 15–30 minutes each day before school starts.
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Incorporate daily physical activity – Schedule at least 30 minutes of movement.
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Practice locker combinations or using school tools – Do it until your child feels confident.
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Encourage a growth mindset – Praise effort, not just results.
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Create a visual calendar – Color-code for school, activities, and family events.
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Review school rules and expectations – Discuss why each rule is important.
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Boost public speaking skills – Have them share a story at dinner.
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Establish a reading or study buddy – Schedule weekly meet-ups.
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Prepare “first day” outfits early – Lay them out the night before.
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Make a “calm down” plan – Teach simple breathing exercises.
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Encourage journaling – Suggest writing three sentences about their day.
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Involve kids in scheduling – Let them choose activity or homework times.
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Review healthy hygiene habits – Practice handwashing and covering coughs.
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Strengthen independence skills – Have them pack their own backpack.
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Role-play asking for help – Practice polite ways to approach a teacher.
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Talk about internet safety – Set clear rules for online use.
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Create a “positive start” playlist – Include their favorite upbeat songs.
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Celebrate the first week – Plan a small treat or fun family outing.