Back to School: Easing the Transition After Summer Vacation

As summer hoildays draw to a close in the UAE, the excitement of a new school year (for international schools) and new term (for Asian schools)  begins to build. The summer break offers a much-needed respite for children, allowing them to recharge and explore. However, this extended downtime can also lead to “summer learning loss,” where students may experience a decline in academic skills due to the hiatus from structured learning. According to a study published in Review of Educational Research, students can lose up to 2-3 months of math and reading skills over the summer. Add to this the fact that, globally, there has been an unprecedented decline in teenagers' math, reading, and science skills in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the situation warrants the urgent need for both parents and teachers to act intentionally and implement measures to address these setbacks.

To combat summer learning loss while still allowing for relaxation, many families engage in creative activities. For example, educational outings such as travel, museum visits or nature hikes offer learning opportunities in the outdoors. Family game nights and interactive activities like cooking or gardening can also stimulate children’s cognitive skills while keeping the environment fun and engaging. The American Psychological Association highlights that downtime allows children to develop creativity and emotional resilience, which are equally important for academic success.

The transition back to school following the holiday period can present a complex set of challenges for students, primarily due to disruptions in their established academic routines. Those with Special Educational Needs or social anxiety in particular, have a set of challenges that are layered and nuanced. Additionally, the psychological shift from the unstructured, leisure-oriented nature of holidays to the demands of a rigorous school schedule can induce anxiety and resistance. This adjustment period therefore must begin early, and needs to be marked by a realignment of daily habits and a reorientation towards academic goals, which can be particularly challenging for both students and educators.

Three Tips for a Smooth Transition Back to School

1.    Establish a Routine Early: don’t let ‘Back to School’ come as a surprise. Gradually reintroduce a school-like schedule a few weeks before school starts. Research from the University of California, Los Angeles suggests that easing into a structured routine helps children adjust more smoothly. Begin by setting consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, and reintroduce a few educational activities such as reading or problem-solving games/tasks and activities.

2.    Encourage Positive Conversations About School: Foster excitement for the upcoming school year/term through positive discussions. A study from the University of Pennsylvania indicates that children’s attitudes towards school can be shaped by their parents’ enthusiasm. Talk about the new opportunities and experiences that await them, and avoid focusing on the end of summer as a loss. It will be prudent of me not to portray schools as utopias where challenges are absent. Children face real struggles at school, including difficulties with friendships and negative experiences that can impact their academic success. Positive conversations with students include helping them understand that it is ok to not be ok, that it is normal to encounter difficulties and that seeking support is a constructive approach. By guiding them towards people, resources and support systems, we can reassure students that they are not alone in their struggles and that help is available to them.

3.    Set Realistic Goals and Manage Time Wisely: In a world where constant notifications, distractions, and the glare of a personal screen are pervasive, imparting time management skills to our children is increasingly crucial. It is not only about organizing their daily activities but also about helping them understand how to make wise, deliberate and thoughtful decisions about their time. Help your child set achievable academic and personal goals for the upcoming school year/term. Teach them effective time management skills by creating a balanced schedule that includes time for study, extracurricular activities, and relaxation. Research indicates that children who learn to set specific, manageable goals are more likely to succeed academically. Avoid overloading their schedules to ensure they have time to unwind and enjoy their pursuits. A well-planned, flexible schedule that avoids burnout can support a healthy balance between work and leisure.

As summer winds down, it’s essential for parents to help their children transition back to a learning mindset. The return to school can embody both excitement and apprehension. Acknowledging that this period is characterized by both promise and challenge enables us to support students effectively, helping them to embrace new opportunities while addressing the uncertainties they may face. Remember they need to be seen, heard and supported.

Enjoy the last days of summer and all the best for an exciting new school year/term ahead.

Written by: Sydney Atkins, Vice Principal and Designated Safeguarding Lead