Back to school!
Welcome back to school! As we embark on a new academic year, we want to ensure you start on the right foot with a focus on wellness and a positive mindset. We’re excited to share some tips and resources to help you create a balanced and successful back-to-school routine.
Back-To-School Wellness Checklist
b. Rested - Last night the homies went to bed on time. It was a struggle to go to bed when the sun was still in the sky, but 7:30 is our school year bedtime, so I closed the black-out curtains and put those girls to bed! Why? Because I know that a good night's rest before school is crucial for students' overall well-being and academic performance.
Adequate sleep is directly linked to cognitive function, memory retention, and concentration, all essential for effective learning. When well-rested, students are more alert, focused, and able to absorb new information during classes. Also, a good night's sleep contributes to emotional regulation and mental resilience, enabling students to better cope with the demands and challenges of the school environment. Sufficient rest supports physical health, including growth, immune function, and overall vitality. Conversely, inadequate sleep can lead to irritability, reduced problem-solving skills, and diminished creativity, hindering learning.
b. Organized - Last night, I laid out everyone's clothes and shoes, packed their bags, and put everything in its place. When the girls woke up, I immediately made their beds, wiped their booties, brushed their teeth, combed their hair, etc.…. it was still a madhouse. This morning's routine was crazy! However, the sense of control and calm of being organized helps me manage a very hectic morning. Routine and organization make a big difference in academic success.
The organization helps students stay on top of assignments, deadlines, and extracurricular activities, reducing the likelihood of last-minute stress and missed opportunities. Additionally, an organized approach fosters a sense of discipline and time management, valuable skills that contribute to academic success. Being organized also allows students to focus on their studies efficiently, as they can easily locate materials and resources when needed. Maintaining organization throughout the school year promotes productivity, reduces anxiety, and lays a foundation for lifelong habits of efficiency and effectiveness.
b. Active - The homies are enrolled in ballet, swimming, and gymnastics this year. These are the activities we do after school. It is equally important that the girls are physically challenged because Being active contributes to a successful school year by promoting overall well-being and academic performance. Regular physical activity has been linked to improved cognitive function, including better concentration, enhanced memory, and increased problem-solving skills. It also helps reduce stress and anxiety, which are common challenges faced by students during the school year.
Staying active promotes better sleep quality, leading to increased alertness and productivity during the day. Yes, the girls do all these activities so that they will go to sleep! (And Louis and I are always excited about the kids going to bed!) Additionally, participation in sports or physical activities fosters teamwork, discipline, and goal-setting abilities, which are essential life skills for academic and personal success. We always look forward to their activities, as they bring joy and excitement to our family life.
b. Mindful - Students who can focus and concentrate better are more likely to comprehend and retain information effectively. Mindfulness helps reduce stress and anxiety, allowing students to approach learning clearly and calmly. Teaching mindfulness to young children, such as toddlers Belle, Lily, and Sofia, can be done through simple and fun activities. I teach the girls to breathe out (blow out a candle) and breathe in (be a vacuum). I also encourage them to express their emotions and thoughts openly, and we practice gratitude by sharing things we are thankful for each day. These activities help them develop an awareness of their feelings and surroundings, laying the foundation for mindfulness as they grow.
Here is to a wonderful school year for you and your family. Great things are ahead. Parents, remember your ability to care for your children is directly linked to your self-care. This morning, I dropped of the kids and took myself to breakfast with hubby. We decompressed. I might even take a nap today. The first day is a big day for everyone, including you. If no one has told you lately, you are doing a great job! You got this! Here’s to a great school year!
Dr, Adrianne Pinkney
