Can you believe it's almost time for the back-to-school hustle and bustle? As we soak up the last moments of summer, I wanted to share some evidenced-based tips to help you make the most out of these precious days while ensuring your kids are set up for a successful return to the classroom. Let's embrace the joy of summer while gearing up for an awesome school year ahead!

Embrace Outdoor Adventures: Summer is all about fun in the sun and creating beautiful memories. Encourage your kids to explore nature, whether it's a hike in the woods, a trip to the beach, or even a backyard camping adventure. Not only will these outdoor escapades keep their bodies active and healthy, but research also shows that exposure to nature enhances cognitive abilities and boosts overall well-being.

Foster Reading Habits: Keep those young minds active and engaged by encouraging reading during the summer break. Visit your local library together and let your kids choose books that spark their curiosity. Reading not only improves vocabulary and language skills but also cultivates imagination and a love for learning. Aim for 20 mins of reading daily with your kids (audio books count!)

Fuel Their Bodies and Minds: A balanced diet is crucial for optimal physical and cognitive development. Take advantage of the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables during the summer months. Get creative in the kitchen and involve your kids in meal planning and preparation. This not only teaches them important life skills but also encourages healthy eating habits that will carry over into the school year. Remember, a well-nourished body equals a focused and energized mind! I also have been using these fun fruit cutters and forks- kids love being creative and using fun tools! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B8H35FH5?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

Establish Routines: While summer is a time for spontaneity and relaxation, gradually introducing routines can help ease the transition back to school. Start implementing consistent bedtimes and wake-up times a couple of weeks before the academic year begins. This will help your kids adjust their sleep schedules and ensure they are well-rested for the challenges that lie ahead. Additionally, creating a morning routine with specific tasks and a designated study area can help set a positive tone for the day. Routines help us as parents too!

Encourage Open Communication: As the new school year approaches, make sure to have open conversations with your kids about any concerns or fears they may have. Let them know that it's natural to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. Assure them that you are there to support and guide them throughout their academic journey. Establishing a safe and open environment for communication will foster trust and allow your children to thrive both socially and academically. Remember when you got the first day jitters? Or even Sunday scaries?

Let's make the most of these precious summer days, cherishing the laughter, adventures, and quality time with our little ones. By incorporating these evidence-based tips into our summer routines, we can set our kids up for back-to-school success while creating beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

Wishing you and your family an amazing end to the summer and a smooth transition into a fantastic school year ahead!

Sending you loads of summer joy and parenting superpowers,

Dr. Shani Esparaz

Double Board-Certified Ophthalmologist, Lifestyle Medicine Specialist, Certified Health & Wellness Coach