5 Tips to Prep Your Kids for a Successful School Year (Tea Included!)

As we say goodbye to the lazy, hazy days of summer, the anticipation of a new school year begins to stir. For parents, this period of transition can be as stressful as it is exciting. But don't fret - here are five unbeatable tips to get your kids back to school ready and primed for success. The secret fifth tip? It involves tea and a grateful teacher! 🍵

1. Establish a Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to education. Well before the first school bell rings, start implementing a regular bedtime and morning routine. Align these schedules with the upcoming school hours to help your kids adjust seamlessly. Healthy meals, ample sleep, and a structured schedule can set the foundation for a successful academic year.

Pro Tip: Start implementing the new routine at least 1 week before the school year begins.

2. Create a Study Space

Dedicate a specific area in your home for homework and study. This space should be quiet, clutter-free, and well-lit. Provide all necessary school supplies within reach. A well-defined, equipped study space can boost your child’s focus and productivity, and reduce distractions.

3. Shop for Supplies Early

Make a list and check it twice! Shopping for school supplies early will save you from last-minute stress. Plus, early birds often get the best selection and deals. Involve your children in this process - let them choose their own backpacks, notebooks, etc., to foster excitement for the new school year and give them a sense of ownership over the supplies you buy for them (they'll take better care of it!)

4. Communicate Openly

Have a candid conversation with your child about the upcoming year. Discuss their hopes, fears, and expectations. Encourage them to set achievable goals, and reassure them that it's okay to make mistakes. This open communication promotes a healthy attitude towards learning and growth.

Pro Tip: Work with your child to create 3-5 measurable goals for the upcoming year. They can range from academics (e.g., GPA) to extracurriculars (e.g., performing in a music recital, playing in a certain number of sports games, etc.). Just make sure the goals are measurable for best results!

5. Give the Teacher a Gift - Tea, Perhaps?

Now here's the secret tip! Consider giving your child's teacher a back-to-school gift. This gesture fosters a good relationship right from the start, showing your appreciation for the role they play in your child’s life. 

So, what makes a good gift? How about tea! Many teachers love tea – it's a simple pleasure that provides a moment of calm in their busy day. Not only is tea a healthier alternative to the ubiquitous coffee, but the wide variety of flavors and types (like Jasmine Green, English Breakfast, and Calming Tea) also caters to diverse taste buds and different times of day. We've found many teachers love to start their day off with a nice cup of black tea in the morning, a little green tea or chai pick-me-up in the afternoon, and a cup of herbal tea in the evenings to wind down.

One of the best ways to give tea to your child's teacher some tea is with the Tea Bento Box, which is a beautiful tea box with a variety of tea flavors. You can build your own Tea Bento Box, or pick from one of our bestsellers. The Sampler Tea Bento Box is a teacher-favorite, since it has a nice mix of both caffeinated and herbal teas. This thoughtful gift is sure to be appreciated and remembered.

And there you have it – five surefire tips to prepare your kids for the back-to-school transition. With a little planning, open communication, and a cup of tea, you can ensure a smooth, successful start to the new school year. Here's to a year full of learning, growth, and many tea-filled moments of tranquility!