The Only Back-to-School Tip You Need

Getting ready for a new school year can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be! As a former reading specialist, I want to share the only tip you need to help your kids ease into the new school year. Be sure to read until the end for my personalized book recommendations!

Back To School Tip: Read with With Your Child Every Night

Spending quality time reading with your kids gives you a valuable opportunity to foster a strong bond while simultaneously helping them adjust to the school routine. By engaging in this activity, you are not only enhancing their reading abilities but also instilling a sense of comfort and security in them. The act of reading together before bedtime can create a peaceful atmosphere, promoting relaxation and a restful night's sleep, which is essential for their overall well-being.

Furthermore, the shared experience of delving into different stories and characters can spark their imagination and creativity, contributing to their cognitive development. This practice also cultivates a love for reading from a young age, setting a foundation for a lifelong passion for learning and exploration. Therefore, dedicating time to read with your children is a simple yet powerful way to support their academic and emotional growth, making it a beneficial routine for both you and your little ones.

Ways To Talk About Reading with your Child:

• Previewing the text: Before starting to read, discuss the title, cover, and illustrations to make predictions about the story.

• Thinking out loud while reading (metacognition): Share your thoughts, questions, and reactions as you read together to model active reading strategies.

• Retelling the story after reading: Encourage your child to summarize the main events, characters, and key points of the story in their own words.

Remember, kids pick up on your stress. Keep the atmosphere light and positive. Focus on the fun aspects of reading and going back to school, like meeting new friends and learning new things. Your calm attitude will help them feel more confident and excited about the new school year. With this tip, your kids will be ready to tackle the new school year with enthusiasm and confidence. Happy back-to-school season!

Book Recommendations:

Below are some of my favorite children's books to read at the beginning of the school year categorized by grade level!

Pre-K to Kindergarten

1. Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall

2. The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

3. Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney

4. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold

5. Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña

First to Second Grade

1. Ralph Tells a Story by Abby Hanlon

2. First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg

3. Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes

4. School's First Day of School by Adam Rex

5. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson

Third to Fifth Grade

1. The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi

2. Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar

3. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

4. Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan

These books feature diverse characters and stories that reflect various cultural backgrounds, helping children see themselves and others in the stories they read.

Also check out my Instagram @ash__doc to see how I monogramed my kids school items with my Cricut! (Jordan’s backpack is from my favorite small business, Poppy Kids Co!)

XO,

Ashley