Back to School: My Son is in 4th grade, Growing Up So Fast!
Today marks a big day in our household—my son is heading back to school as a 4th grader. It’s hard to believe how quickly time flies. It feels like just yesterday I was holding his tiny hand as he took his first steps, and now he’s off to conquer another school year. As much as I’ll miss having him around all day, I’m excited for the adventures and learning that await him.
Preparing for the First Day of School:
The first day of school can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for kids (and parents!). Here are some things we did to make sure my son was ready to hit the ground running
The base for our creamy pudding layer.
- Backpack Check: We went through his backpack to ensure all supplies were packed, from pencils and notebooks to his favorite water bottle.
- School Clothes: We picked out his outfit the night before to avoid the morning rush. Making sure his clothes were comfortable and school-appropriate was key.
- Reviewing the Schedule: We went over his class schedule together so he knows what to expect, including where his classroom is and what time school starts.
- Bedtime Routine: A few days before school started, we gradually adjusted his bedtime to ensure he gets enough rest and wakes up refreshed.
Lunch Packing Tips:
Packing lunch can be a daily challenge, but with a little planning, it can be a breeze:
- Mix and Match: Pack a variety of foods to keep things interesting. Include a mix of fruits, veggies, proteins, and carbs. For example, a turkey and cheese sandwich, carrot sticks, an apple, and a handful of nuts.
- Get Them Involved: Let your child help pack their lunch. It gives them a sense of responsibility and ensures they’ll have foods they enjoy.
- Prep Ahead: Prepare lunches the night before to avoid the morning scramble. You can even pre-pack snacks for the entire week in reusable containers.
- Keep it Fun: Use cookie cutters to shape sandwiches or add a small note of encouragement in their lunchbox. Little surprises can make lunchtime special.
What to Buy for the School Year:
As the school year kicks off, here are some essential items to consider:
- Quality Backpack: Invest in a durable, comfortable backpack that can hold all their supplies and books without straining their back.
- Lunchbox and Water Bottle: A good lunchbox with compartments and a sturdy, leak-proof water bottle are must-haves.
- Organizational Tools: A planner or calendar can help your child stay on top of assignments and activities. Consider getting one that’s colorful and fun to encourage its use.
- Comfortable Clothing: Stock up on school-appropriate, comfortable clothes that can withstand the wear and tear of daily activities.
Sending my Stevie off to 4th grade is a bittersweet experience, but knowing he’s prepared and ready for the challenges ahead makes it a little easier. With the right preparation and a little planning, we can help our kids have a successful and enjoyable school year. Good luck mamas!!
