Preparing your kids for back to school mode - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Despite temperatures near 100, the summer is nearly over for school kids. For many, the first day of classes is less than three weeks away.

If you have made a trip to the store recently, you know parents are in "back to school" mode, picking up supplies their kids will need. Education experts said there is more you can do to make sure your child is ready for the classroom, and it has nothing to do with what you buy. Instead, Arthur Hochman of Butler University, said you need to spend time with your kids over the last few weeks of summer break.

Hochman said you have to ask yourself, "Can I take myself away from my computer to get my child away from his computer? Maybe plan an adventure, [go to] the art museum, read together."

He said if you spend some quality time with your child, they are more likely to talk to you about any problems or challenges they have along the way.

"Where were the speed bumps in the previous year and where are the speed bumps in the coming year? One of the things is to create an environment of what they're concerned about last year or the coming year."

Hochman suggested talking about what's important to them. He said kids are more likely to share with you if you are doing something where it can happen naturally, like riding in the car or playing a game.

Parents should also be doing everything they can to prepare. They should attend school orientations, visit the school, and try not to put too many of your expectations on your child's shoulders.

Also, you may be concerned about getting your child back on a schedule. Hochman said if schedules work for your child, great, but keep in mind that they do not work for everyone. Instead, do what you can to get them comfortable and relaxed.