As the third term sets to kick off in Nigerian schools, preparing your child adequately to embrace school activities is critical. As parents, we should ensure our children are not only academically ready but also physically and emotionally equipped to tackle the term ahead.

To prepare your child for a seamless return to school, emphasising rest, play, and strategic planning is important. After the hustle and bustle of the previous terms, many children enter the third term feeling fatigued. Adequate rest and play are crucial to rejuvenate their minds and bodies. Sleep, for instance, plays a vital role in improving concentration, memory retention, and overall mood. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that school-aged children get 9-11 hours of sleep each night. Parents should establish consistent bedtime routines, even on weekends, to help children develop a healthy sleep pattern.

Equally important is play. Whether it’s a game of soccer, a creative art project, or simply free play with friends, these activities allow children to unwind, develop social skills, and boost their creativity. For younger kids, activities like building blocks or storytelling enhance cognitive skills; teenagers may benefit from sports or hobbies that nurture their interests. Strike a balance between play and study to keep your child energised and motivated.

While rest and play are vital, academic readiness cannot be overlooked. The third term often involves revisions and assessments that solidify the foundation for the next academic year. Parents should support their children by reviewing past lessons; go over the syllabus from previous terms to identify and address any learning gaps.

Establishing a routine: design a study schedule that allows for consistent review without overwhelming the child, and encourage independence by teaching children to take ownership of their studies by organising their materials and setting personal goals.

Supplement these efforts with educational tools such as workbooks, educational apps, and online resources tailored to your child’s grade level. This proactive approach ensures that your child feels confident and prepared for upcoming challenges.

Parents play an indispensable role in ensuring their children have a smooth return to school. Hence, it is important to: Organise School Supplies. Ensure uniforms, textbooks, stationery, and other essentials are ready well before the term begins. Involve your child in this process to teach them organisational skills.

Revisit Routines. Gradually reintroduce school-time routines, including wake-up times, meal schedules, and study hours, to help your child ease into the term. Foster Communication with Teachers; maintain an open line of communication with your child’s teachers. Understanding their expectations and areas of focus for the term enables you to support your child’s learning journey better.

Prioritise Health and Nutrition; balanced meals, hydration, and regular physical activity are non-negotiable for maintaining your child’s overall well-being. A healthy child is a happy and productive learner.