Pre-K: Back to School Story Fun

Create a back to school story with your little one to help them prepare for the new school year and to remind them that God is always with them, even at school. Stack 3 or 4 pieces of plain paper together and fold the stack in half to create a blank book. Add a bit of tape or glue in the middle crease to keep pages together. Prepare a few pictures ahead of time to show your child ideas about what to draw, such as their ride to school, the school, a classroom, a playground, toys or games at school, snack ideas, and possibly friends that might be classmates. Over the course of a few days, begin to show them the pictures and talk about their new school and things they might do during their days. As you talk, have them draw corresponding pictures on a page in the book using crayons or markers. Add a caption underneath each picture that writes like a back to school adventure. At the end of the story, you could ask your child to draw a picture of God and their family with them to remind them they are so loved and supported throughout their days at school (Isaiah 41:10).

K - 5th: Back to School Prayer Chain

Using construction paper, cut strips of paper equal in width and length. Then create a single “link” (circle) by stapling, gluing, or taping the ends of the strip together. Over time, you’ll create a longer chain by linking additional paper links through the previous link and adhering the ends of the new link together. For now, hang your chain somewhere visible in your home. Each day, add one link as a prayer practice. What does a link represent? A prayer for a friend; teacher; safe bus rides; strength during hard tests, anxiety, nerves, etc. Write your prayer on the link or simply discuss the prayer while you add to your chain. Use this time to remind them God is always with them and wants to be a part of their school life too. Explore how they can shine Jesus’ light and God’s love at school.

6th - 12th Grade: Back to School Anxieties of Parents and What We Can Do About Them

Anxieties surrounding the back-to-school season are not restricted to the student. Parents and guardians of students have their own set of anxieties and fears. Kara Powell, the Executive Director of the Fuller Youth Institute, shares how she handles her own back-to-school anxieties. 

• Pay attention to them. Don’t deny them or dwell on them, but acknowledge the fears you have as your family plunges back into the world of school lunches and rushed carpools.
• See if you can figure out what’s underneath that fear. What is behind the fear you have about your child, or your family’s schedule? Is it your own feelings of inadequacy, or your own struggles with loneliness?
• Talk to others about what you’re fearing.
• Talk with Jesus about them
• Talk with Jesus with your kids

When any of my kids share their concerns about their teacher, homework, or friendships, I try to talk to Jesus aloud right then and there. We pray that God would guide them to the right friends at lunch. We ask God to put them in the classes where they can best be salt and light.