It's Back To School Time!

As summer winds down, the anticipation of a new school year begins to build (or for some, has already begun!). Whether the kids in your life are stepping into a classroom for the first time or heading back for another year, the shift from summer freedom to school routines can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. Preparing for back-to-school season is more than just ticking off items on a supply list—it’s about setting up children (and ourselves!) for success in the months ahead. At Adventure Nannies, we understand the mixed emotions that come with this time of year. Our team members not only help families connect with amazing nannies and private educators, but many of us are also preparing our own kids for the transition back to school. We know how important it is to create an environment that supports academic achievement, emotional well-being, and maybe even a few moments of calm amidst the chaos. To help you navigate this transition smoothly, we’ve put together some practical tips that can make all the difference. But here’s the thing before you dive into these tips: it’s okay if you don’t get to everything—or even anything—on this list. These are just tools and suggestions, not a hard-and-fast rulebook. Whether you dive into a few of these tips or simply focus on getting through the first day, remember—you’ve got this. The goal is to make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible in a way that works for your unique situation, even if that means taking things one step at a time.

Create a Learning-Friendly Environment at Home Ahead of Back To School

Creating a cozy, organized space for homework and study can boost focus and productivity. But don’t worry—you don’t need to overhaul your entire home to make it happen. Here’s how to set up a learning environment that’s simple and effective.

Find a Study Spot For Homework Focus Time

Choose a quiet, clutter-free spot in your home for homework and studying. This could be a corner of the living room, a spot at the kitchen table, or a desk in the bedroom. Letting the kids help set up their study space and choose supplies or decorations gives them a sense of ownership and makes them more excited to use it.

Stock Up on Essentials For Back To School

Make sure the study space is stocked with everything they’ll need:

• Pencils, pens, and highlighters
• Notebooks and paper
• A desk or table with a comfortable chair
• A good light source, like a desk lamp
• Necessary tools like a calculator, ruler, or laptop
• Organizational items such as folders, a calendar, or a bulletin board

Bonus points for cuteness--especially with middle-schoolers! This is separate from their school supply list, however you can likely just take a few out of the box

Minimize Distractions

Keeping the study area free from distractions helps maintain focus. Remove items that might pull attention away from work, like craft supplies, tablets, or toys. For kids who are easily distracted, noise-canceling headphones or soft background music can create a more focused environment.By setting up a dedicated study space that’s just for them, you’re not only helping to keep distractions at bay but also giving them a spot that makes getting down to work a bit easier and maybe even a little more enjoyable. It’s all about making learning feel like a comfortable and natural part of their day.

Adjusting To Back To School Routines

Summer is all about freedom—late bedtimes, spontaneous adventures, and a laid-back vibe. But as the new school year approaches, it’s time to gently guide the kids back into routines. Let’s make this transition smooth and even a little fun.

Adjusting Sleep Schedules As Back To School Approaches

Sleep is key to making sure the kids are ready to tackle the school day. To avoid a rude awakening, start moving bedtime earlier by 15-30 minutes every few days. This way, they’ll ease into their school schedule without feeling like summer’s suddenly over.Create a calming bedtime routine that helps them wind down naturally. Whether it’s reading a favorite book together, having a warm bath, or listening to soothing music or a bedtime podcast, these activities signal that it’s time to rest. Podcasts like Moshling Sleepy Paws or Sleepy Time Mumbles are great for providing gentle stories or sounds that help them drift off. And if those summer evenings are still bright and sunny, blackout curtains can work wonders to create a cozy, sleep-friendly environment.

Practicing the Morning Routine Before Heading Back To School

Mornings can be chaotic, especially when everyone’s adjusting to new schedules. A practice run a week or so before school starts can help everyone get into the groove. Go through the motions of waking up, having breakfast, getting dressed, and packing school bags. This practice helps spot any potential hiccups before the big day.Get the kids involved the night before by having them lay out their clothes, pack their backpacks, and even set the breakfast table. It might seem a little over the top, but trust me, practicing all the steps can make sure nothing’s forgotten when it really counts.

Easing Into Back To School Learning Mode

Switching gears from summer mode to school mode doesn’t have to be a drag. Start by reintroducing some light, structured learning activities that get their brains buzzing again.Set aside a regular time each day for reading, even if it’s just 15-20 minutes. Mix it up with different genres to keep it interesting—anything from fun fiction to cool non-fiction. To make learning more interactive, try listening to educational podcasts together. Here are a few to check out:

• Mysteries of True History: Perfect for older kids, this podcast dives into fascinating historical events and figures, bringing history to life in a way that’s both engaging and educational.
• Lingo Kids: Great for younger kids, this podcast offers fun stories and activities that help build language skills and spark creativity.
• Growin’ Up with Emily Calandrelli: Emily Calandrelli, also known as “The Space Gal,” is not only a passionate science communicator but also an aerospace engineer who’s preparing to go to space! Her podcast explores big questions kids have about growing up and science, making it a great conversation starter. And if the kids love that, you can check out her YouTube series, Emily’s Wonder Lab, where she makes science experiments fun and accessible for kids of all ages.
• Brains On!: A science podcast for curious kids and adults alike, where different scientific topics are explored in a fun and understandable way.
• But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids: Kids ask the questions, and the hosts find the answers. This podcast is great for young, inquisitive minds who love to learn about the world around them.
• Story Pirates: Combining creativity with storytelling, this podcast takes stories written by kids and turns them into hilarious, entertaining tales that can spark a love of storytelling and creativity.

You can also dive into creative projects that require some structure, like building models, trying out new recipes, or exploring simple science experiments. These activities help ease them back into following instructions and completing tasks, all while keeping things fun and engaging.By gradually reintroducing routines and blending in a bit of learning with their play, you’re helping the kids transition back to school with excitement and confidence.

Setting Expectations and Goals for Successful Back To School Transitions

As the new school year gets underway, it’s a good idea to sit down with your young child and talk about what they hope to accomplish. Creating S.M.A.R.T. goals—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound—can be enjoyable and will help children maintain their motivation during the school year. Here’s how to guide them through the process so they can achieve their goals successfully:

How to Set Back To School Goals with Kids

Start the conversation with questions like,

“What would you really like to learn this year?”

or

“What would you like to get better at?”

These open-ended questions guide kids toward thinking about goals without pressure in a relaxed and natural manner. Once they start talking about what they want to achieve, you can introduce them to S.M.A.R.T. goals.

Lead them toward specific goals

For example, a vague goal like “I want to be better at reading” can be refined to “I want to read one new book every week,” giving them a definitive target. The goals should also be measurable so they are aware of how close they are to reaching their target.Ask them,

“How will we know when you’ve reached your goal?”

For example, it’s easy to track something like

“I want to count to 100 by the end of the month,”

as you can literally count together.Just ensure that goals are achievable so they feel encouraged rather than overwhelmed. For instance, if the child is at the pre-reading level, it might be more realistic to set a goal like

“I want to learn ten new sight words this month.”

Employing these goal-setting strategies in an age-appropriate way, keeps things within reach and instills confidence, while still challenging them.

Support Goal-Setting with Regular Check-Ins and Celebrations

Once the goals are set, it’s important to maintain momentum with regular check-ins. Ask about progress—either weekly or daily, depending on the goal. Questions like, “How’s your goal going?” show that you’re genuinely interested and supportive. Celebrate their efforts and successes, no matter how small. When they reach a milestone or achieve their goal, make it special with something they’ll love, like a sticker chart, a special treat, or a fun outing. Celebrating these successes keeps them motivated and makes the whole process enjoyable.

Collaborate with Parents and Teachers for Consistent Support

To give the child the best chance at success, it’s crucial that everyone is on the same page. Start by ensuring the goals align with the family’s values and expectations. Then, reach out to their teacher to share the goals and discuss how you can all work together to support the child’s progress.Keep communication open between you, the parents, and the teacher. Share updates, discuss challenges, and work as a team to support the child’s development. Be consistent so the child knows everyone is cheering them on, whether at home or school. This teamwork not only reinforces their goals but also provides the consistent encouragement they need to stay motivated.By setting S.M.A.R.T. goals and fostering open communication among parents, teachers, and yourself, you help the child start the school year with clear, achievable objectives and a strong support system. This approach keeps them motivated and teaches them valuable life skills that will benefit them for years to come.

Fostering Emotional Readiness

Going back to school brings out a whole range of emotions—some kids are excited, while others might feel a bit anxious. Helping them navigate these feelings can make the transition smoother. Here’s how to get them emotionally ready:

Open Conversations

Start by checking in with the kids as the first day of school approaches. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are you feeling about starting school?” or “Is there anything on your mind?” This opens up space for them to share any worries or excitement they might have.If they’re feeling nervous, especially about things like making friends or fitting in, reassure them that it’s completely normal. Share a story or example about a time you felt the same way and how things worked out. Sometimes, just knowing that it’s okay to feel unsure can really help ease their minds.

Social/Emotional Skills Refresh

For kids who might be out of practice with group settings, a quick refresher on social skills can be really beneficial. Talk about different scenarios they might encounter at school, like meeting new people or resolving a disagreement, and give them simple phrases or tools to help navigate these situations.For example, you can help them practice how to introduce themselves, ask to join a group, or express their feelings if they’re upset. Giving them a few go-to phrases can boost their confidence and make social interactions feel less daunting.

Involve Kids in Back To School Prep

Getting ready for the new school year doesn’t have to be a chore—it can actually be a lot of fun, especially when you involve the kids. By making them a part of the process, you can help ease the transition and get them excited about the year ahead.Bring them along for school supply shopping, where you can let them choose their backpack, lunchbox, and favorite notebooks. Giving them the supply list and having them check off each item as you shop makes the experience interactive and gives them a sense of responsibility. For older kids–you can even give them a budget and help them refresh some math skills before hopping back into the classroom! This not only makes shopping more enjoyable but also helps them feel prepared and excited for the new school year.

Once you’ve got everything home, it’s time to organize. Let the kids take the lead when it comes to tasks like labeling their school supplies, packing their backpacks, and setting up their study spaces. Whether it’s arranging pencils in a desk organizer or picking the perfect spot for their notebooks, involving them in this process gives them ownership over their things and helps them feel more in control as they gear up for school.To keep the excitement building, create a back-to-school countdown together. Let them decorate a calendar and cross off the days as the first day of school approaches. This simple activity turns the anticipation into a fun, positive experience, making the countdown to school something they can look forward to.You can also make the first week a little more special by planning outfits together. Encourage them to pick out their clothes for the week and lay them out in a designated spot. This not only streamlines busy mornings but also gives them something to look forward to each day, helping them start the school year with confidence and style.By involving your kids in these back-to-school preparations, you’re doing more than just ticking items off a to-do list—you’re helping them feel involved, confident, and excited about the new school year. It’s all about creating a positive, empowering experience that sets the tone for a successful year ahead.

Food = Fuel! Keep Them Going With Back To School Lunches and Snacks

Keep Kids Energized with Balanced and Fun Back To School Meals

When it comes to keeping kids energized and ready to tackle the day, what they eat can make a big difference. It’s all about helping them find the right fuel that makes their bodies feel good, without getting too hung up on “good” or “bad” foods. Here’s how you can keep them fueled with balanced, tasty meals and snacks that they’ll actually enjoy.

Start Back To School with a Power-Packed Breakfast

Breakfast is a crucial meal—it’s like the first boost of fuel for their busy day. Aim to mix things up with protein, whole grains, and fruits or veggies. This combo helps maintain steady energy levels and keeps their brains ready to learn.

Offering Nutritious Options

Consider options like whole-grain toast with avocado and a boiled egg. It’s packed with healthy fats and protein to keep them full until snack time. Or, if they enjoy smoothies, blend one with spinach, banana, and Greek yogurt—it’s an easy way to pack in nutrients. If they prefer something warm and cozy, oatmeal with berries and nuts is always a great choice.

Tips for Picky Eaters

For picky eaters, involving them in breakfast preparation can make all the difference. Let them create their own yogurt parfaits with their favorite fruits and granola, or prepare egg muffins with cheese and veggies that they can grab on the go. The more they’re involved, the more excited they’ll be to eat.

Managing Back To School Anxiety

It’s totally normal for both kids—and their parents and nannies—to feel a bit anxious as the school year approaches. Getting ready emotionally is just as important as ticking off that supply list. Here are some strategies and book recommendations to help ease those back-to-school jitters and make the transition smoother for everyone.

Try Mindfulness Together

Introducing kids to mindfulness practices is a great way to help them manage any anxiety. Simple techniques like deep breathing, guided imagery, or short meditation sessions can work wonders in calming their minds and bodies. Plus, practicing mindfulness together not only helps them relax but also strengthens the bond between you. There are some great mindfulness apps out there, like Headspace for Kids and Stop, Breathe & Think Kids, which offer guided exercises that are both fun and easy to follow.

Read Together to Open Up Conversations Around Big Back To School Feelings

Books can be a fantastic tool for addressing the emotions kids feel as they gear up for school. Reading together can open up important conversations and help them understand that what they’re feeling is normal—and that they’re not alone. Here are a few book recommendations to help tackle those back-to-school nerves:

Books For Younger Children (Ages 4-8):

• Way Past Nervous by Hallee Adelman: This book is part of the incredible “Way Past” series, which tackles various emotions kids might feel. It’s a great way to start conversations about nervousness and how to handle it. We love all of Hallee’s books and highly recommend checking them out!
• The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn: A classic that reassures kids about separation anxiety and reminds them that love is always with them, even when they’re apart from their parents or nannies.

Books For Older Children (Ages 8-12):

• Five Things About Ava Andrews by Margaret Dilloway: This story touches on anxiety in a relatable way, following a young girl as she learns to manage her anxiety while navigating the ups and downs of school and friendships.
• The Nervous Knight by Greg James and Chris Smith: This book tells the tale of a knight who learns to face his fears with the help of friends and new coping strategies, offering a fun yet insightful look at managing anxiety.

Reading these stories together can help kids feel less isolated in their emotions and give them strategies to cope with their anxiety. Plus, it creates a safe space for them to share their thoughts and worries about the new school year.By using mindfulness practices and reading together, you can help your child—or the child you’re caring for—feel more confident and ready to take on the challenges of the new school year. It’s all about creating a calm, supportive environment where they know they’re not alone in their feelings.

Back To School Tips: Staying Organized as a Family

When the school year kicks in, life can get pretty hectic with all the activities and deadlines. Staying organized can make a world of difference, helping everyone keep it together and reducing stress. Here’s some of our favorite tips to help get organized as the school year gets underway:

Get Everyone On The Same Page As You Go Back To School With A Family Calendar

A family calendar is a total lifesaver for keeping track of everything from school events to extracurriculars and important dates. You can go digital with a shared online calendar that everyone can access or keep it old-school with a big wall calendar in the kitchen. Get the kids involved in updating it—it’s not only a great way to teach them about managing their time but also keeps everyone in the loop. Plus, it’s a lot easier to stay on top of things when you can all see what’s coming up.

Make Weekly Back To School Check-Ins a Habit

Weekly family check-ins are awesome for staying connected and making sure everyone’s set for the week ahead. These mini-meetings are perfect for going over schedules, discussing any concerns, and giving a shout-out for what went well. You don’t need anything fancy—a whiteboard or a simple planner will do the trick. These check-ins help everyone stay on the same page and give you a chance to tweak plans before things get too crazy.

Stay Connected with Regular Communication

Staying organized really comes down to good communication. Make it a habit to chat about the week’s plans and use tools that fit your family’s style. Whether it’s a quick text, a group chat, or a sit-down at dinner, keeping the lines open helps everyone feel more supported and in the loop. Plus, when you’re all on the same page, it’s easier to enjoy the school year without feeling overwhelmed.By staying organized, checking in regularly, and keeping the communication flowing, you can handle the school year like a pro and keep the stress to a minimum for everyone.

Wrap-Up: Fostering a Love of Learning During Back To School Transitions

Getting ready for back-to-school isn’t just about buying supplies or setting routines—it’s about sparking a love of learning that will carry through the whole year and beyond. By creating a positive, supportive environment, you’re setting up the kids for success in a way that makes education exciting and fun.When you show genuine enthusiasm for what the kids are learning, celebrate their efforts, and create a supportive environment, you’re sending a powerful message that learning is valuable, fun, and something to be embraced. Focusing on their hard work rather than just the final results helps them build resilience and a growth mindset, teaching them that challenges and mistakes are just part of the journey.As a nanny, your role in helping children navigate transitions—whether it’s the start of a new school year or any other change—is incredibly important. By easing them into routines, creating a supportive space, and keeping communication open with parents and teachers, you’re setting them up for a positive experience. It’s not just about managing the day-to-day; it’s about building a foundation for lifelong learning, resilience, and growth. These strategies aren’t just for the first day of school—they’re tools you can use to support kids through all sorts of transitions, helping them feel confident and prepared no matter what comes their way.So here’s to a fantastic year ahead, full of curiosity, growth, and plenty of new experiences. With the right approach, you can help turn the back-to-school season into an exciting adventure that sets the tone for a successful, joyful school year.Want to learn more about hiring an adventure nanny, newborn care specialist, or private educator? Learn more about our process, as well as general resources for all families working with nannies on our family resource page. Ready to hire or have more questions for our team? We'd love to speak with you and answer any questions you have, fill out this form and our team will be in contact with you soon!  To learn more about how to apply for positions and the process of becoming an Adventure Nanny, head to our candidate resource page. Ready to apply? Head to the job board to learn more about the awesome families that are hiring now!!Are you a member of the press interested in contacting our marketing team? Please email marketing@adventurenannies.com and we'll be in touch soon!