As the new school year begins, there are some specific ways you can support your child's transition “back-to-school” and help them thrive in their unique learning environment.

Here are three essential tips to ensure a smooth and successful start to the school year.

1. Foster Independence at Home

Montessori education emphasizes independence and self-directed learning, even for very young children. You can support this philosophy at home by encouraging your child to do things on their own, which will help them feel more confident and capable at school.

• Morning Routines. Encourage your child to take part in their morning routine, such as dressing themselves, brushing their teeth, and helping to pack their own school bag. You might need to provide guidance at first but giving them the space to try on their own builds their confidence and independence.

• Child-Sized Tools. Just like at school, having child-sized tools at home can make a big difference. Simple items like a step stool in the bathroom, a low shelf for toys and books, or child-sized utensils for meals can empower your child to do things independently.

• Choices and Responsibilities. Offer your child simple choices, such as picking out their clothes or choosing a snack. Involving them in household tasks, like setting the table or tidying up their toys, helps reinforce the skills they are learning in their Montessori environment.

2. Establish a Consistent Routine

Consistency is key for young children, and having a reliable routine at home can greatly ease the transition to the school year. A predictable routine helps children feel secure and understand what to expect, both at home and at school.

• Morning Routine. Start the day off right with a consistent morning routine. Waking up at the same time each day, having breakfast together, and taking a few moments to discuss the day ahead can set a positive tone for your child before they head off to school.

• After-School Rituals. Whether it’s a snack and some playtime, or quiet time with a favorite activity, having a predictable after-school routine helps your child unwind and transition from school to home.

• Regular Bedtimes. Ensure your child gets enough sleep by sticking to a consistent bedtime routine. Adequate rest is crucial for their ability to focus and engage at school. Incorporating calming activities like reading a book, singing a lullaby or doing a mindfulness podcast, can make bedtime a more peaceful, predictable part of the day.

3. Build a Strong Partnership with the School

A successful Montessori education is built on strong collaboration between the school and the family. Staying engaged with the school community and your child's teachers helps ensure that your child receives consistent support both at home and in the classroom. A growing body of research shows that family involvement improves not only student behavior and attendance but also positively affects student achievement.

• Stay Informed. Make it a priority to attend parent-teacher meetings, read Brightwheel messages and emails, and stay up to date on any events or important dates. This helps you stay connected with what’s happening at school and how your child is progressing.

• Communicate Regularly. Reach out to your child’s teachers if you have any questions. Open communication is key to addressing any curiosities or challenges early on and ensuring your child is supported in their learning journey.

• Participate in School Activities. Whenever possible, get involved in school activities, whether it’s volunteering for events, attending family engagement nights, or joining school celebrations. Your involvement shows your child that school is important and valued, and it strengthens your connection with the school community.

Starting the school year with a focus on fostering independence, establishing consistent routines, and building a strong partnership with your child's teachers will help them adjust and thrive in their learning environment. By supporting these essential aspects, you’re not only helping your child succeed in school but also fostering lifelong skills and a love for learning.

About Hala Kahiki

Designed for children 18 months – 6 years, Hala Kahiki is the first and only authentic Montessori school on Lāna’i.  Under the guiding influence of specially trained teachers, children work with multi-sensorial materials to help them learn to think critically and become well-rounded global citizens.  We would love to partner with you to give your children the best-possible early childhood education; please let us know how we can help you achieve your goals for your child.