The classic 60’s hit “See You in September” by the Happenings, is about young love and the bittersweet farewell over the summer and the anticipation of reuniting in September when the school year is out again. Over the years, however, the song has become the anthem to the back to school season. For kids in Miami and the surrounding areas, however, the song needs revising. Unlike a lot of northern states, like New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, where the school year runs from early September to late June, most schools in Miami run from mid-August to early June.
Plenty of reasons exist as to why this is the case. First, there are climate considerations. The summer months in Miami can be extremely hot and humid, making it less conducive for students to be outdoors. Also, northern states need to contend with winter snow day disruptions, while Miami needs to adjust for potential hurricane disruptions that tend to happen between June and November. By starting the school year earlier, students can finish the school year in May, avoiding the peak summer heat and have enough potential makeup days to accommodate hurricane disruption. Second, history also plays its part both in terms of the old agricultural calendar and a strong tradition of starting school in mid-August.
For whatever the reasons for the mid-August start, this means that kids in Miami need to prepare a lot earlier for back-to-school compared to many other parts of the country. To help prepare, we’ve put together a list of Miami Back-To-School tips to help you prepare for your child.
#1 Beat the Heat
Miami’s tropical climate can be intense, especially in the first few months of the school year. Keeping cool and hydrated is crucial for maintaining focus and energy throughout the school day. Here’s how to ensure your child stays comfortable:
- Hydration: The heat can quickly dehydrate children, affecting their concentration and energy levels. Pack a reusable water bottle for your child and remind them to drink water regularly throughout the day. Many schools have water fountains or refill stations, so take advantage of these.
- Light Clothing: Choose light, breathable fabrics such as cotton for your child’s school attire. Avoid dark colors that absorb heat. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing will help keep them cool. Consider investing in moisture-wicking shirts, which are especially useful for active children.
- Sun Protection: The sun in Miami can be very strong, so it’s essential to protect your child’s skin. Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before they leave for school, and teach them to reapply if they are outdoors for extended periods. Hats and sunglasses can provide additional protection during recess or outdoor activities.
For more information on beating the head more generally, check out our Miami Summer Survival Guide.
#2 Stay Organized
Being organized is a key factor in academic success. A well-organized student can manage their time and responsibilities more effectively, reducing stress and improving performance:
- School Supplies: Create a checklist of required school supplies and shop early to avoid the last-minute rush. Include basics like notebooks, pens, pencils, and any specialized items needed for specific subjects. Having everything ready will ensure your child is prepared from day one.
- Backpack Essentials: Help your child organize their backpack with clearly labeled folders for each subject to keep their work organized. A planner is also essential for tracking assignments, projects, and important dates. Teach them to check their planner daily and update it with new tasks.
Homework Station: Set up a quiet, dedicated space at home for your child to do their homework. This area should be free from distractions such as TV or loud noises. Ensure it’s well-lit and stocked with necessary supplies like pencils, paper, and a calculator. Consistent use of this space can help establish a productive homework routine.
#3 Get Involved
Encouraging involvement in school activities can greatly enhance the educational experience. Being part of the school community helps students develop social skills, build friendships, and discover new interests:
- Join Clubs: Miami schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports to academic clubs to arts and culture groups. Encourage your child to explore different clubs and find one that sparks their interest. Participation in these activities can boost their confidence and provide a sense of belonging.
Volunteer: Parents can stay connected and support the school community by volunteering for events, committees, or classroom activities. Volunteering is also a great way to meet other parents and form a support network. Many schools have parent-teacher associations (PTAs) that welcome new members.
#4 Healthy Routines
Establishing healthy routines is crucial for both academic success and overall well-being. Consistency in daily habits can improve focus, energy levels, and mood:
- Sleep Schedule: Adequate sleep is vital for children’s development and academic performance. Set a consistent bedtime routine to ensure your child gets enough rest. Aim for 9-11 hours of sleep per night for younger children and 8-10 hours for teenagers. Limit screen time before bed to help them wind down.
- Nutritious Meals: Proper nutrition fuels the body and mind. Pack balanced lunches and snacks that include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Involve your child in meal planning to teach them about healthy eating.
- Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is important for physical health and can also improve mental focus and mood. Encourage your child to participate in school sports, dance classes, or simply playing outside. Aim for at least 60 minutes of activity per day.
#5 Mental Health Matters
School can be stressful, so it’s important to support your child’s mental health. A healthy mind is as important as a healthy body:
- Open Communication: Foster an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their feelings and concerns. Regularly check in with them about their school experience, friendships, and any worries they might have. Being a good listener can help them feel supported and understood.
- Stress Management: Teach your child stress-relief techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or journaling. These can be valuable tools for managing anxiety and pressure. Encourage them to take breaks when studying and engage in activities they enjoy to relax.
- Seek Help if Needed: If your child is struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Many schools have counselors available, and there are numerous resources in Miami for child and adolescent mental health support.
#6 Stay Informed
Keeping up with school news and policies is essential for staying on top of your child’s education and being involved in their school community:
- School Website and Newsletters: Regularly check the school’s website and read newsletters to stay informed about important updates, events, and deadlines. Schools often communicate through these channels, so make sure you’re receiving and reviewing this information.
- Parent-Teacher Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with your child’s teachers. Attend parent-teacher conferences and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have concerns or questions. Building a positive relationship with teachers can help you better support your child’s education.
#7 Transportation Tips
Navigating Miami traffic can be challenging, so it’s important to plan accordingly to ensure your child arrives at school safely and on time:
- School Bus: If your child takes the school bus, review the schedule and bus stop locations ahead of time. Teach your child bus safety rules and make sure they know what to do if they miss the bus.
- Carpooling: Consider carpooling with other families in your neighborhood. Carpooling not only reduces traffic and environmental impact but also fosters a sense of community. Establish a rotating schedule and ensure that all drivers are reliable and safe.
- Public Transportation: Familiarize yourself with Miami-Dade Transit routes if your child uses public transportation. Practice the route with them a few times before school starts to build their confidence. Ensure they have a charged phone and know who to contact in case of any issues.
#8 Safety First
Ensuring your child’s safety should be a top priority. Discuss safety measures and emergency procedures with your child:
- Emergency Plan: Develop a family emergency plan and make sure your child knows how to contact you and what to do in various situations. This can include what to do in case of severe weather, lockdowns, or if they need to leave school early.
- School Safety Policies: Review the school’s safety policies and discuss them with your child. Make sure they understand procedures for fire drills, lockdowns, and other emergency situations.
- Digital Safety: Educate your child about internet safety. Monitor their online activities and teach them to recognize and avoid cyberbullying, phishing scams, and inappropriate content. Set clear rules about screen time and online behavior.
#9 Special Treats
Rewarding your child with special treats can provide motivation and make the back-to-school transition more enjoyable. Consider incorporating fun, local treats into their routine as a way to celebrate milestones and achievements:
- Dippin’ Dots: Dippin’ Dots can be a delightful treat for your child after a long week of school. These tiny, beaded ice cream/ frozen treats come in various flavors, dairy and non-dairy options that are a fun, inspiring, and refreshing way to cool down after school.
- Doc Popcorn: For an equally enjoyable option, Doc Popcorn offers a variety of flavored popcorn that can serve as a special snack. With options ranging from sweet to savory, this treat can be a hit during study breaks or as a reward for completing homework. Best of all they come free of trans fats, MSG, artificial colors and preservatives.
Integrating these treats into your child’s routine can make the school year more exciting and provide small rewards that motivate them to do their best.
Miami Back-To-School Support
By following the Miami Back-To-School tips, your child will be well placed to learn, grow and thrive for the rest of the school year. And don’t forget, we at Total Snacks are always here to help you out with Tip #9. Whether through our catering services, school fundraising platform, online store options, or at our location in Westland Mall, we’re here to make everyone’s back to school special. We carry some of America’s most favorite snack brands including Dippin’ Dots and Doc Popcorn. Check out our website here to find out how to get more involved with some of our programs.
Total Snacks
Total Snacks’ mission is to always provide the highest quality snack food for people to enjoy wherever and whenever. The business began in 2015 by entrepreneurs Eleazar López Contreras and Mabe León-Ponte, a husband and wife team, who immediately noticed a lack of high-quality snacking options around their new home in Miami, Florida. From its humble beginnings as a single retail kiosk, the couple has worked tirelessly and creatively to bring the best in class snack foods to the region. Today, Total Snacks stands out as the premier provider of snack foods and catering in Miami. Its products can be found in over 300 independent outlets, and the company provides contract catering solutions to some of the largest sporting and entertainment venues in the area, while bringing smiles to thousands of people a year through its corporate and private catering activities. Despite its success, Total Snacks has never wavered from its core mission to offer the highest quality snack foods and the best customer service.
