OKLAHOMA CITY (August 14, 2025) – As the summer months come to an end, parents across Oklahoma are preparing to send their children back to school. A new school year can mean new friends, new routines and new opportunities to grow. Here are five simple ways parents can help their children prepare for the new school year.

• Choose an after-school program

If your child needs after-school supervision, choose a licensed provider you can trust. Use the Oklahoma Human Services Child Care Locator to find programs that meet state safety and quality standards. Prior to enrolling your child in any childcare program make sure to visit the facility in person, meet the staff and tour the classrooms. Ask program administrators about safety practices, schedules and how staff are trained to care for the children in their program. Look for programs that incorporate homework help, active play and creative activities into their curriculum.

• Practice safety routines

Before the start of the new school year walk or drive your child’s route to school or to the bus stop together, being sure to review street-crossing rules along the way. Likewise, help your child memorize your phone number and remind them of the individuals who have been granted permission to pick them up from school.

• Set healthy routines early

Getting a good night’s sleep and proper nutrition is key to being able to focus and learn. Get back to a school sleep schedule and pack balanced snacks and lunches for children returning to the classroom. Send a reusable water bottle with children to ensure that they stay well hydrated.

• Partner with teachers and caregivers

Meet your child’s teacher and after-school staff early in the year and share important information like allergies, learning needs and favorite activities with them. Work together to solve problems quickly and support your child’s growth.

• Keep talking and listening

Parents know all about first-day jitters and are ready and eager to hear all about how their child’s first day of school went. However, don’t forget to keep the conversation going. Every day after school, try asking your child what the best and hardest parts of their day were. Continually remind your child that it’s okay to tell you or a trusted adult if something feels unsafe. Lastly, carve out time to celebrate your child’s successes — big or small.

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