Summer 2025 is coming to fast close. The count down is on to the end of summer.  Now is the time to get your family back to school ready! 

Nights out under the stars and firefly catching should be replaced with earlier bed time and  routines.  Begin adjusting your child’s bed time now to ensure they get the right about of sleep.  Getting enough sleep not only promotes good health and strengthens your immune system but is shown to have a direct correlation with school performance.  Children who get adequate sleep are better able to focus in the classroom and have lower absentee rates.   Bedtime routines should be consistant and perhaps include a bath/ shower, reading a book and kiss goodnight.   

All electronics, phones, tablets, computers, and tv’s should be removed and or off in your child’s room.  Try to keep the home quiet and calm as possible.  

Start planning healthy lunch box options and quick breakfast ideas for those busy mornings.  If your child plans to pack lunch involve him/ her in the planning packing and grocery shopping.  As they get older making healthy food choices and packing lunch themselves will be part of their routine. 

If your back to school shopping list includes a back pack make sure it fits your child appropriately, is not too heavy and has wide padded straps.  It should be worn over both shoulders to prevent muscle strain. As the year goes on, clean it out occasionally to keep it from getting too heavy.  Proper playground footwear is essential to prevent fails and injury as well as provide protection and support to growing feet. 

Bus safety is important for those who ride as well as those who will be drive along side a bus. Make sure your child walks where the bus driver can see them and looks both ways if crossing the street is necessary.  Remind your driving students to buckle up, not be be distracted while driving with phone, text, music or too many friends in the car.  All drivers need stop when the bus does and to slow down in school zones and on neighboorhood streets where children are walking to and from the bus or school.

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