10/22/2026
Getting back into the swing of school can be a tricky time for many, caregivers included. As you find yourself juggling all things back-to-school related (emails, new teachers, schedules, routines, new expectations, etc.), it is important to remember to take care of yourself and your student. Here are some helpful reminders*:
🛌Encourage a good night’s sleep and stick to a routine or schedule. Most students underestimate the amount of sleep their growing brains and bodies need, or can have a hard time adjusting back to an earlier bedtime after time off from school. Getting enough sleep not only equips them for a full day of learning, but can also help to support their immune health and reduce stress.
📵Turn off technology about an hour before bedtime, and encourage quiet, calming activities such as reading, drawing, dimming lights, or listening to calming music before bed, as well as setting out what they need for the next day the night before.
📚Support healthy study habits, routine, and develop a space for homework. Some students prefer to come home and get started on their homework, while others need some time to wind down. Help your child to recognize what the best time may be to do their homework before they run out of time and energy, and discuss a space that makes sense to focus. This may be in their room, as long as they have a clutter-free and distraction-free spot. Similarly, some students like to listen to music while others need a more quiet space.
📆Encourage organization tools and skills. Each student at Dearborn is provided with a planner to keep track of assignments and other important information. Remind your child to use tools like this to stay organized.
🎒Be curious about your child’s day. Even if it is just to ask about one good thing that happened. We know it can be challenging to get any information from your child when it comes to school, but if you keep the door open to conversation, you may be able to look for patterns that they share about their day.
*Credit to Dearborn Academy Clinician, Deanna Moran
Learn more about Dearborn Academy and Schools for Children at www.schoolsforchildreninc.org
