Back to School | Genesis Counseling Center

How to Make the Most of a School Day

For most children, school just started again. Although there is a great deal of excitement surrounding a new school year, there is also a great deal of stress. There are steps you can take to help your child get the most out of their day.

Eat Breakfast! Breakfast is often overlooked on busy mornings, but it’s the most important meal of the day! Studies show that eating a healthy breakfast can help give children a more nutritionally complete diet, higher in vitamins and minerals. Eating breakfast has also shown improved concentration and performance in the classroom. Even if it’s something quick and easy, eating breakfast can help kids start their day the right way before school.

Teach your children organization. Having a family calendar will help your child learn that organization can make their lives easier and less stressful. Add important projects that they will do at school to this calendar, it will help tasks seem less daunting to have them organized and to set a dedicated amount of time to each project per week.

Eat dinner consistently and as a family. Teaching kids to eat at the same time consistently can prevent obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes (Time). Eating dinner together also helps children decompress from the stresses of school, and gives you a chance to bond as a family.

Go to bed at the same time every night. Consistency in sleep schedules can help children feel energized and ready to take on the day. Regular sleep patterns are almost as important as getting enough sleep. Getting proper sleep will help children focus throughout the day and keep their circadian rhythms optimal.