How to Prepare for Back to School

The first day back to school can set the tone for the whole school year, and it’s only natural to feel nervous or jittery. Don’t worry! There are a few things you can do to prepare for a smooth back-to-school day. If your new school year includes distance learning or a completely virtual classroom, you may be a little nervous, but even when learning from home, there are ways to help make your first day of school a little easier. go smoothly.

Table of Contents

Prepare the night before

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/4/44/Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-7-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-7-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/44/ Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-7-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-7-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Have your clothes and school supplies ready. Take some time to choose an outfit that you like or prepare a uniform and place it next to your bed so you can quickly put it on without having to rush to find clothes. Choose clothes that make you feel confident, and remember to be clean! Pack your school supplies in your backpack so you can just grab them and head to school. ^{[1] X Research Source}

If you have to wear a school uniform, you can add accessories to create your own style. Jewelry such as necklaces or bracelets will highlight your uniform. As long as you don’t break the school rules.
Remember to follow the school dress code, even if you don’t have to wear a uniform. You don’t want to get in trouble on the first day of class, do you?

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/4/4d/Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-5-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-5-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/4d/ Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-5-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-5-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Plan how you will go to school tomorrow. Think about whether you’ll ride the school bus, ask a friend to pick you up, or your parents will drop you off at school to make arrangements. Don’t wait until the last minute to rush to find a way! ^{[2] X Trusted Source HealthyChildren.org Go to Source}

If you live close by, you can walk or bike to school.
If you take the shuttle bus, you will have the opportunity to chat with your classmates and make new friends.
You can also join a carpooling association so you can go with your friends.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/a/a8/Help-a-Child-with-Anxiety-About-Schop-Step-6.jpg/v4-728px-Help- a-Child-with-Anxiety-About-Schop-Step-6.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a8/Help-a-Child-with- Anxiety-About-Schop-Step-6.jpg/v4-728px-Help-a-Child-with-Anxiety-About-Schop-Step-6.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

2 alarms 10 minutes apart to make sure you wake up on time. Give yourself plenty of time to wake up and prepare for your first day of school by setting your alarm an hour before school. Set 2 alarms on your watch or phone so you don’t fall asleep, or press snooze and fall asleep. ^{[3] X Research Sources}

Choose a bell that rings so loud you’re sure to wake up.
Try setting the alarm a little further away so you have to get out of bed to turn it off. That way you won’t fall asleep again.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/6/6a/Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-8-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-8-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/ Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-8-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-8-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Relax about 30 minutes before bed, and try to get at least 8 hours of sleep. Put away your phone and turn off the TV about half an hour before bed to calm your mind, especially when you’re feeling nervous. Try listening to soothing music or reading a book to relax. Go to bed early to get a good night’s sleep so that you wake up the next morning feeling refreshed and ready for a new day. ^{[4] X Research Sources}

If you stayed up late during the summer break, try going to bed a week earlier before school starts to re-establish your sleep routine.
If you have trouble sleeping, read a book. You will naturally feel sleepy.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/7/78/Help-a-Child-with-Anxiety-About-Schop-Step-5.jpg/v4-728px-Help- a-Child-with-Anxiety-About-Schop-Step-5.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/78/Help-a-Child-with- Anxiety-About-Schop-Step-5.jpg/v4-728px-Help-a-Child-with-Anxiety-About-Schop-Step-5.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Talk to your parents or friends if you’re feeling nervous about the new school year. Feeling a little stressed and nervous before the new school year is completely normal. Try talking to someone you trust, such as a close friend or family member. Tell them how you are feeling. People will encourage you, and you will be calmer. ^{[5] X Research Sources}

You don’t have to hide your feelings. If you’re worried, talk to someone. If it’s your classmate, chances are she’s just as nervous as you are!
Your parents may remind you of times when you were just as anxious, but in the end you did a great job. For example, a few years ago you might have been terribly nervous before your first class, but in the end you did a great job, didn’t you?

Passing the first class smoothly

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/a/a4/Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-11-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-11-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a4/ Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-11-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-11-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Eat a filling and nutritious breakfast to fuel up. Start your day the right way with a healthy breakfast to keep you energized until lunch. Breakfast should be nutritionally balanced with protein and carbs, such as eggs and toast or a delicious bowl of cereal with milk. Sip on some fruits and vegetables too. ^{[6] X Research Sources}

Do not eat full stomach, or you will feel tired and sluggish.
If you’re so nervous that you can’t eat, at least try to eat a piece of bread or fruit to get something in your stomach to help you get through until lunch.

Ashley Pritchard, MA

School counselor

Ashley Pritchard is an academic counselor at Delaware Valley Regional High School in Frenchtown, New Jersey. Ashley has over 3 years of school and college experience and has career counseling experience. She holds an MA in school counseling with a specialization in Mental Health from Caldwell University and is certified by the University of California, Irvine as an Independent Educator.

Ashley Pritchard, MA
School counselor

Experts agree that the best way to prepare for the first day of school is to get enough sleep, wake up early and eat breakfast. Once you are well prepared, you will no longer have to worry and stress.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/e/ea/Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-12-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-12-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/e/ea/ Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-12-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-12-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Arrive at school 15 minutes early to find a class. Get to school a little early so you don’t have to worry about being late or finding a class. Find friends to see if anyone is in the same class as you. Find a class to see where you need to go. ^{[7] X Research Sources}

You’ll be less anxious on the first day of school if you know where you need to go and where everything is going.
If you’re taking a shuttle, you’ll usually arrive a few minutes early before class starts. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to find friends and take classes.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/8/8b/Handle-a-Tattletale-Child-Step-3.jpg/v4-728px-Handle-a-Tattletale-Child- Step-3.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8b/Handle-a-Tattletale-Child-Step-3.jpg/v4-728px-Handle- a-Tattletale-Child-Step-3.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser -output”></div>”}

Introduce yourself to the teacher to get off to a good start. When you come to class, go talk to the teacher. Tell your teacher what your name is and what you like about that subject. You’ll make a good impression on your teacher, and if you need help later on, there’s a much better chance they’ll miss you. ^{[8] X Research Sources}

For example, if you like history, tell your history teacher that you are looking forward to learning about a certain subject in history.
A good relationship with your teachers will help you a lot if you need to improve your grades at the end of the school year.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/8/88/Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-14-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-14-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/88/ Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-14-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-14-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Focus and contribute to building lessons in class. Ask questions if you are not sure about something and raise your hand to say if you know the answer to the question asked by the teacher. The first class session may not include many assignments or lectures, but if you do, make sure you take notes to review at home. If you need a volunteer, don’t hesitate to step up! But if you are too nervous, you can still sit still, take notes and answer when called. ^{[9] X Research Source}

If you are inherently introverted, don’t worry. You can still be a good student even if you’re not the comedian of the class or the standout person in the class.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/5/5d/Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-15-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-15-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/5d/ Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-15-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-15-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Talk to friends and classmates about your summer vacation. School is a great place to meet old friends and make new ones. Find old friends and tell each other about what you did last summer. Introduce yourself to new people in class or in the hallway to make friends. You will be less anxious when chatting with friends. ^{[10] X Research Source}

If you have social anxiety, gathering the courage to make new friends on the first day of class will help you overcome shyness. Soon you’ll find that nearly everyone around you can be friends you’ve never even thought of talking to!

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/3/3a/Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-17-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-17-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3a/ Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-17-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-17-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Try to enjoy the first lesson. While the first day of class is full of things to look out for, your teacher won’t usually give you much homework, and you’ll spend most of your time learning about your new class and schedule. Take this opportunity to relax and get acquainted with the schedule of the new school year, have fun meeting friends and enjoying lunch. Feel free to enjoy the fun in the new school year! ^{[11] X Research Source}

Surround yourself with people who will accompany you in the new school year, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t have fun with them.
Try to put aside your worries, and don’t forget to always smile!

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/c/cb/Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-18.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare- For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-18.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/cb/Prepare-For-The-First- Day-of-Schop-Step-18.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-18.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Relax and unwind when you get home from school. Feel free to rest when you get home so you don’t feel overwhelmed on the first day of school. You can play games, eat snacks, lounge on the couch or watch TV to relax. ^{[12] X Research Source}

If you have homework, make sure you take some time to solve it.
Invite friends to meet in class to hang out or do something together.
There’s nothing more comforting than coming home on the first day of school. So enjoy it!
The first day of school can seem strangely long compared to other days, largely because you have so many things to do and so many people at the same time. Pamper yourself a little!

Preparing for summer vacation

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/d/db/Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-16-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-16-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/db/ Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-16-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Prepare-For-The-First-Day-of-Schop-Step-16-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Find the clubs and sports teams you want to join. School clubs are usually active at the beginning of the school year, so it would be a good idea to look for on-campus sports clubs and groups now. Search online and ask around if there are groups that match your interests to sign up early this year. ^{[13] X Research Source}

You can also check the school message board or call the office to learn more about sports clubs and teams.
Are you into music? Join a choir or guitar club. Or do you love Akira Kurosawa and Lars von Trier movies? Then your school’s film club might be the place for you.
Clubs will nurture your existing interests and are the perfect place to meet friends who are on your “frequency”.
If you’re really passionate about something the school doesn’t have a club for, start a club yourself!

Adapting to distance learning

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/c/cd/Explain-Racism-to-a-Child-Step-10-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Explain- Racism-to-a-Child-Step-10-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/cd/Explain-Racism-to-a- Child-Step-10-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Explain-Racism-to-a-Child-Step-10-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Create a space at home for distance learning. Find a nice, clean, quiet area that’s easy for you to focus on. Set up your desk, arrange learning tools and equipment, such as computers, to be ready for distance learning. ^{[19] X Trusted Source Understood Go to Source}

For example, you can use the dining table in the kitchen or the study table in the bedroom as a place to study.
Try to minimize distractions so you can focus on studying.
Keep your study space clean and tidy so you can fully focus on your studies.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/c/c2/Impress-a-Girl-in-Middle-Schop-Step-2-Version-3.jpg/v4-728px- Impress-a-Girl-in-Middle-Schop-Step-2-Version-3.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/c2/Impress-a- Girl-in-Middle-Schop-Step-2-Version-3.jpg/v4-728px-Impress-a-Girl-in-Middle-Schop-Step-2-Version-3.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460 ,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Get ready as usual when you arrive at school. Follow the same routine as you do every morning before school, such as showering, brushing your teeth, and eating a delicious breakfast. Change into your pajamas and wear nice clothes to stay focused in class and make it easier to concentrate. ^{[20] X Research Source}

When you dress up like you normally would, your mind and body get a signal that it’s time to get to work, and this can help keep you motivated.
Also, you probably want to look neat and professional, too, especially if you study via video chat with your teachers and classmates.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/d/d9/Fit-in-at-a-New-Schop-Step-1.jpg/v4-728px-Fit-in- at-a-New-Schop-Step-1.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d9/Fit-in-at-a-New-Schop- Step-1.jpg/v4-728px-Fit-in-at-a-New-Schop-Step-1.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Review the school’s online learning system and curriculum. If your school uses a learning management system (LMS) for virtual classrooms, take the time to learn the details. View class schedules and prepare for classes so you can schedule your day, and this will help you deal with feelings of stress and anxiety. ^{[21] X Research Source}

Many LMS programs have instructions and explanations for how to use them. Do your research so you can use it fluently.
Follow your teacher’s instructions about distance learning.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/1/11/Go-from-Homeschop-to-High-Schop-Step-8.jpg/v4-728px-Go-from- Homeschop-to-High-Schop-Step-8.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/11/Go-from-Homeschop-to-High-Schop- Step-8.jpg/v4-728px-Go-from-Homeschop-to-High-Schop-Step-8.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Use a planner to keep things organized. Pick a nice notebook you like and write down the due date and test date. Look in your planner each day to see what you’re going to do and make sure to keep up with all of your classes. If there are any changes to assignments or anything new, be sure to write them down in your notebook. ^{[22] X Research Source}

The planner comes in many formats and designs, so you can choose the beautiful one that you really like and want to use!
You can find notebooks in stationery stores or supermarkets. You can also order online.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/7/76/Get-a-Child-Ready-for-a-Spelling-Bee-Step-19.jpg/v4-728px- Get-a-Child-Ready-for-a-Spelling-Bee-Step-19.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/76/Get-a- Child-Ready-for-a-Spelling-Bee-Step-19.jpg/v4-728px-Get-a-Child-Ready-for-a-Spelling-Bee-Step-19.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460 ,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Participate in post construction in online classes and assignments. Whether you’re using an LMS, following a teacher’s instructions, or learning via videoconference with your teacher and classmates, try to actively contribute to the lesson as much as possible. Listen to lectures, ask questions, and volunteer to answer questions from your teacher to get the most out of your knowledge, and this can be helpful if you’re worried about grades or tests. ^{[23] X Research Sources}

You may be a little afraid of distance learning if you are not used to it, but don’t worry! If you study hard, focus and ask your teacher for help when you don’t understand the lesson, you will get good results.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/5/58/Cope-with-Divorce-As-a-Child-Step-5-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px- Cope-with-Divorce-As-a-Child-Step-5-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/58/Cope-with- Divorce-As-a-Child-Step-5-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Cope-with-Divorce-As-a-Child-Step-5-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460 ,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Complete assigned assignments and ask questions if you have questions. Teachers will assign assignments and assignments as part of the distance learning program. Complete assignments on time to keep up with the course and never be overwhelmed. If you do not understand something, ask your teacher for help or explain it clearly. ^{[24] X Research Source}

For many teachers and students, distance learning is relatively new, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you can’t keep up!

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/a/ab/Cope-with-Divorce-As-a-Child-Step-11.jpg/v4-728px-Cope-with- Divorce-As-a-Child-Step-11.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/ab/Cope-with-Divorce-As-a-Child- Step-11.jpg/v4-728px-Cope-with-Divorce-As-a-Child-Step-11.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Take a short break every hour to help focus your mind. Give your brain a break by getting up and walking around for about 5 minutes every hour. Take a sip of water and stretch to increase blood circulation. After a break, you’ll feel refreshed and focused so you can get back to work. ^{[25] X Research Sources}

Remember that you don’t have recess and lunch breaks like you do in school, so you have to give yourself breaks and snacks to stay focused.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/5/57/Protect-Your-Child-from-Mpestation-Step-11-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Protect- Your-Child-from-Mpestation-Step-11-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/57/Protect-Your-Child-from- Mpestation-Step-11-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Protect-Your-Child-from-Mpestation-Step-11-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Reach out to your teacher if you have difficulty. If you don’t understand something or have trouble accessing the information, send a message to the teacher via email or LMS. Explain your problem in detail, including all the things you’ve tried to fix, and it still doesn’t work. ^{[26] X Research Sources}

Don’t be afraid to ask people for help!
It’s better to be careful, and ask if you’re not sure about something so you don’t waste time or make a mistake.

Advice

If you have a friend on the bus and in the same class as you, try to go with him or her. Two people are always better than one!

Warning

If you are afraid of being bullied or feel threatened, talk to your parents or school counselor. You don’t deserve to be mistreated, so get help if you need it. ^{[27] X Research Source}

Steps