As the new school year approaches, here is some advice to help your children and teens prepare for a smooth transition back to the classroom.

🛏️ Reboot Sleep Routines

Start shifting bedtimes and wake-up times a week or two before school begins. Elementary school kids need 10–11 hours of sleep, middle schoolers 9–10 hours, and high schoolers 8–9 hours. It may be helpful to shift bedtimes 30 minutes earlier each day to ease into the new schedule.

🥗 Fuel for Learning

A balanced breakfast and healthy snacks keep energy levels steady and brains ready to learn. Healthy meals include whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy (or dairy alternative), and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

🎒 Check the Backpack

Make sure backpacks are not too heavy—no more than 10–15% of your child’s body weight. Both shoulder straps should be used to prevent strain.

🧠 Mental Health Matters

Talk with your child about how they feel about going back to school. Let them know it’s okay to feel nervous or excited, and reassure them they’re not alone.

📱 Ease Into Tech Limits

Gradually cut down on summer screen time and reestablish tech-free times—like during meals and one hour before bed.

If there are school or sports forms that need to be completed, they should already be done. If you are just now realizing that there are forms you need done, please forward them to our forms email address:

• Towson office: formstowson@mainstreetpeds.com
• Foundry Row office: formsfoundry@mainstreetpeds.com

Wishing your family a great start to the school year!