5 Tips to Start the School Year Strong:
Building Good Habits from Day One
Last Updated : August 12, 2025
As we start another school year, it's another chance for parents and kids to develop some habits to help create a less stressful school season! Whether you're heading back to school on the west coast, prairies, central Canada or the maritimes, these tips can help you make the most of the new school year.
For Kids: 5 Tips to Start the School Year Strong
- Get Your Stuff Ready: Having the right supplies can make a big difference in your school year. Make a list of the things you need, like pens, pencils, notebooks, and folders. Get a backpack or bag that's comfortable to carry and has enough room for all your stuff, like your hockey gear or art supplies. Having a designated spot for your school supplies at home can also help you stay organized.
- Create a Fun Study Space: Find a spot in your home that's just for studying and doing homework. Make it comfortable and inviting by adding a favorite chair, a fun lamp, or some inspiring quotes on the wall, like a quote from a Canadian hero like Terry Fox. Keep your study space organized and clutter-free so you can focus on your work.
- Make a Plan: Use a planner, calendar, or app to keep track of assignments, due dates, and important events, like the Calgary Stampede or the Toronto Rock lacrosse game. Write down everything you need to do and check it off as you finish each task. This will help you stay on top of your work and avoid last-minute cramming.
- Be Kind to Yourself: School can be stressful, but it's essential to take care of yourself. Make time for activities you enjoy, like playing shinny hockey, hiking in the Rockies, or reading about Canadian history. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, drink water, and take breaks when you need them. Don't be too hard on yourself if you make mistakes - everyone learns from them.
- Ask for Help: If you're struggling with a subject or assignment, don't be afraid to ask for help. Talk to your teacher, parent, or classmate about what's confusing you. You can also ask for tutoring or online resources to help you understand the material better.
For Parents: 5 Tips to Support Your Child's Success
- Establish a Bedtime Routine: A consistent sleep schedule is crucial for kids' physical and mental health. Establish a bedtime routine that works for your child, including activities like reading, storytelling, or relaxation techniques, like meditation or deep breathing. Make sure they get enough sleep each night and wake up feeling rested and refreshed.
- Create a Morning Routine: Develop a morning routine that works for your family, including time for breakfast, getting dressed, and packing lunches. Encourage your child to take ownership of their morning routine by laying out their clothes, packing their backpack, and preparing their lunch the night before, just like getting ready for a hockey tournament.
- Stay Organized: Help your child stay on top of assignments and due dates by using a planner, calendar, or app. Encourage them to write down everything they need to do and check it off as they finish each task. You can also set reminders on your phone or calendar to ensure you don't miss important deadlines, like parent-teacher conferences.
- Encourage Balance: Support your child in finding activities they enjoy outside of school, such as sports, friends, clubs, or hobbies, like playing lacrosse or joining a book club. This can help them develop new skills, make friends, and reduce stress. Encourage them to try new things and find what works best for them.
- Communicate with Teachers: Build a relationship with your child's teachers by attending parent-teacher conferences, volunteering in the classroom, or simply sending an email to introduce yourself. This can help you stay informed about your child's progress, ask questions, and address any challenges they may be facing.
By following these tips, kids can develop good habits and parents can support their children's success throughout the school year.
