No sooner do we settle into our summer routines then you look around at any retail store and see back to school supplies stocked on the shelves! You immediately think, “Didn’t we just get through this school year? Please make it stop! I’m not ready to even think about another school year yet!” Seeing the notebooks, crayons and binders can stir up a lot of emotions, excitement for a fresh start, worry about how things will go for your child this school year, concern for having the financial means to get supplies, clothes, etc.

Stop. Take a deep breath. Be mindful that children sense when we are stressed, they intuitively know that something isn’t right. It may cause them to worry and become anxious about the upcoming school year. Remind yourself that your family was able to manage to get through the last school year no matter the bumps. You can build on the lessons learned from last year. Begin with some early preparations to help set you and your family on the path for a successful 2022-2023 school year. You are not alone. We are here to help you now and throughout the year! To help you get on track, below is a Back-to-School Resource Guide with tips for a variety of categories.

Most importantly, please remember that there is hope for a very successful school year ahead! We are here if you need some guidance to get started on the right path. Family support specialists are parents who have children that have experienced struggles as well. We understand. Please reach out to the Bucks LIFE program if you have concerns about your child’s upcoming school year. We are happy to discuss your concerns and support your family through these challenging times.

 All our best from the Bucks LIFE family support team

 

Back-to-School Resource Guide
Below are resources for the purpose of helping you navigate back-to-school

 

General Back-to-School Tips:

Before it's time to head back to school, follow these tips to help ensure your kids have a safe, happy and productive year.

 
 

Managing Back-to-School Anxiety:

Back-to-school anxiety is normal and understandable. Many kids may feel anxious about going back to school after a long summer break. Others may feel nervous about starting school for the first time.

Below are some articles with tips and strategies to recognize and manage the anxiety.

 
 

If your child has an IEP:

Whether your child’s beginning a new school year or has a brand-new (IEP), you’ll want to get off to a good start. Here’s what you can do to kick off the IEP and school year the right way.

 

If your child experienced academic or social struggles last year: 

There are a number of issues that can cause children to struggle in school. It is essential to know how to recognize the signs that your child is struggling, so you can intervene and get them help. 

Consider reaching out to your child’s school for assistance. Often parents/caregivers can speak with a guidance counselor or principal a few weeks before the start of the school. Below is a guide to help you navigate this.

 

If you need before and after school care:

Consider exploring some options before the school year starts.  Generally, local school districts offer programs as well as, local townships, places of faith, and various childcare and community organizations. Your local Y organizations are a good place to start.

 

To prepare your child with school supplies:

First check on your district or school’s website for lists that have already been created. Typically, these lists are found on the teacher’s class page or perhaps supplies are listed by grade level. If you are at a loss on where to start, use a back-to-school supply guide such as the one below.

It’s absolutely okay to send your child to school with the basics and build their necessary supplies within the first few weeks of school as needed. Consider refreshing and reusing supplies from last year. Check out local dollar stores that often have most supplies that are needed. If you need help with getting school supplies, reach out to us. We can guide you to places providing school supplies within the community.

 

Keep doing what you are doing for your child and continue to advocate. You are the expert of your child. You know what your child needs and may need to do research on your own to get your child’s needs met.
If you are unsure what to do or how to best advocate for your child, reach out to Bucks LIFE. We are parents who understand the struggles, provide emotional support, and guide you through the process. We have been or are currently in your shoes. Reach out to us at 888-442-1590 or buckslife@accessservices.org.

 

More Bucks County Services

Learn more about how we are helping the Bucks County community.

Questions to Ponder

1. What are ways that you can help yourself mentally prepare for the school year?

2. Do you have a support system in place for the tough moments?

 

Do you have something to contribute or a question to ask?

Bucks LIFE is brought to you by:

 

Access Services
500 W Office Center Drive, Suite 100  | Fort Washington, Pennsylvania 19034
888-442-1590     buckslife@accessservices.org

Having trouble viewing this email? View it in your web browser

 
Unsubscribe or Manage Your Preferences