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The summer holidays are a time for families to relax and enjoy quality time together. However, they also present a valuable opportunity for parents to help their children prepare for the upcoming school term. By taking a few proactive steps during the break, parents can ease their children’s transition back to school and set them up for a successful year. Here are ten things parents can do in the summer holidays to prepare for the September term.

1. Review Last Year’s Material Together

Helping your child review last year’s material can reinforce their knowledge and ensure they have a strong foundation for the new school year.

Tips:

• Create a Study Schedule: Dedicate a few hours each week to go over last year’s notes and textbooks with your child.
• Use Online Resources: Websites like Khan Academy and BBC Bitesize offer free tutorials and exercises that you can explore together.
• Form a Study Group: Encourage your child to study with friends, and host group study sessions at home.

2. Encourage Reading Books Related to the Curriculum

Reading books that are part of the upcoming curriculum or related to subjects they’ll be studying can give your child a head start and deepen their understanding.

Tips:

• Create a Reading List: Identify the books your child will need to read for their courses and start reading them over the summer.
• Visit the Library: Make use of local libraries to access the books on the reading list.
• Discuss the Books: As your child reads, engage in discussions about the book and ask questions to help them think critically.

3. Organise Your Child’s Study Space

A well-organised study space can greatly enhance your child’s productivity and focus. Use the summer break to set up a study area that is conducive to learning.

Tips:

• Choose a Quiet Spot: Find a place in your home where your child can study without interruptions.
• Stock Up on Supplies: Ensure your child has all the necessary stationery, notebooks, and other study materials.
• Keep It Tidy: Help your child maintain a clutter-free environment to aid concentration.

4. Plan the Family Schedule

Planning the family schedule in advance can help manage everyone’s time effectively once the school term starts.

Tips:

• Use a Family Planner: Invest in a family planner or use digital calendar apps to organise everyone’s schedule. I love the Box Clever Press Family Planner Calendar – I’ve been using these for years.
• Set Goals: Outline academic and personal goals for your child for the term.
• Include Breaks: Ensure the schedule includes time for relaxation and extracurricular activities.

5. Strengthen Your Child’s Study Skills

Developing effective study skills can make a significant difference in your child’s academic performance.

Tips:

• Practice Time Management: Teach your child to prioritise tasks and manage their time efficiently.
• Develop Note-Taking Techniques: Show your child different note-taking methods, such as the Cornell Method or mind mapping.
• Improve Test-Taking Strategies: Practice past exam papers with your child and teach them techniques to manage exam stress.

6. Encourage Enrichment Activities

Participating in enrichment activities can enhance your child’s skills and make them a well-rounded student.

Tips:

• Attend Workshops: Look for workshops or online courses that focus on subjects your child is interested in.
• Volunteer Together: Gain experience and give back to the community by volunteering as a family.
• Join Clubs: Encourage your child to participate in clubs or groups that align with their interests, such as debate club or science club.

7. Promote Physical Activity

Physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being, which in turn can improve academic performance.

Tips:

• Exercise Regularly: Engage in activities like jogging, swimming, or cycling as a family.
• Join a Sports Team: Encourage your child to participate in team sports to stay active and develop teamwork skills.
• Practice Yoga or Meditation: These practices can help reduce stress and improve concentration.

8. Prepare School Supplies Early

Having school supplies ready before the term starts can reduce last-minute stress and ensure your child is prepared from day one.

Tips:

• Make a List: List all the supplies your child will need, including textbooks, notebooks, and stationery.
• Shop Early: Avoid the back-to-school rush by shopping for supplies early in the summer.
• Label Items: Personalise supplies to avoid mix-ups and losses.

9. Establish Healthy Sleep Habits

A regular sleep schedule is crucial for academic success. Use the summer to establish healthy sleep habits for your child.

Tips:

• Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Encourage your child to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
• Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Engage in calming activities before bed, such as reading or listening to music.
• Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens at least an hour before bedtime.

10. Set Personal Goals with Your Child

Setting personal goals for the upcoming term can provide motivation and direction for your child.

Tips:

• Reflect on Last Year: Help your child identify areas for improvement and set specific, achievable goals.
• Write Down Goals: Encourage your child to keep a written record of their goals to stay committed.
• Review and Adjust: Regularly review progress and adjust goals as needed.

Final Thoughts

The summer holidays are an excellent time for families to relax and recharge, but they also offer a unique opportunity to prepare for the upcoming school term. By reviewing material, encouraging reading, organising study spaces, and engaging in enrichment activities, parents can help their children start the new academic year with confidence and enthusiasm. Embrace these proactive steps, and your child will be well-prepared to tackle the September term successfully.