Transitioning from carefree summer days to early morning routines, class schedules, and evening studies can be challenging for kids of any age. It can be even more challenging—and maybe even dreaded—for those with challenging or bad experiences in the school environment, such as confronting peer pressure or bullying, or those with learning or other disabilities. Taking some concrete steps now can help make the back-to-school transition easier—not just for school-age children, but for your entire household.

1. ‍Roll into a routine now. It can be as simple as regular mealtimes, weekend chores, or family walks after dinner. Start to set limits on screen time if you haven’t already. This can help “reset” the mind to performing certain tasks at specific times. It can also help with changing sleep patterns.
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2. Talk about goals for the school year. Maybe your children haven’t thought about setting goals in school—other than to “just get through it”—but by exploring this topic you may all learn more about one another. Discussions could focus on academic goals, such as working up to dual-credit courses that can help your high school student earn college credits, or reaching milestones in extracurricular activities. These conversations may also bring some concerns to the surface, such as trepidations or anxieties. Even if the conversations are brief, as parents or caregivers you now have an awareness that can lead to greater in-depth conversations later, or even professional help, if warranted.
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3. Think about meal planning (particularly breakfast). School morning households are often hectic, so advance meal planning can help calm the frenzy and feed the family! It’s not just about filling the stomach; research shows that students with a breakfast under their belts perform better in school. Some schools may even offer breakfast once the kids arrive.
   
   It's worth noting that if your child doesn’t feel hungry in the morning, try to pinpoint a cause or, at a minimum, be observant. It could be due to a late dinner the night before, or it could be a sign of anxiety or stress. Keep in mind that your Transocean benefits includes several mental and behavioral health resources, including the Employee Assistance Program offered through Optum, virtual and telehealth specialist visits if you’re enrolled in a Transocean medical plan, and the TalkSpace app.
   
   Also, while the concept may have seemed antiquated in recent years, the pandemic brought back the family mealtime for many. It turns out the ritual does have value beyond nutrition. Even a reticent teenager can learn about their parents as you discuss your day. The activity of meal preparation, dining, conversation, and cleaning up together demonstrates the value in budgeting, planning, teamwork and cooperation, which can enrich the family relationship. Even as life and other activities invariably get in the way, try to plan for a sit-down meal a few times a week.
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4. ‍Prioritize sleep. Setting up regular and healthy bedtime routines when your children are young makes it easier for them to maintain that habit as they get older, when additional activities may compete for their evening and late-night attention. A good night’s sleep isn’t just important for your child’s academic performance and mental health; it also has physical benefits such as a reduced risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, and injury prevention.

Remember, success in school doesn’t just rest with your student—you can set the tone by starting some beneficial routines now!