3 Simple Ways Parents Are Bringing Joy To Back-To-School Time
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Remember the first day of school? The new backpack, the fresh notebooks, the excitement of seeing your friends again. It’s pure magic—until it’s not.
By week two, the novelty fades, the homework piles up, and suddenly, school is just another routine. The sad truth is that that initial spark disappears fast, and for some kids, it never comes back. It’s no wonder dropout rates are still a concern, and fewer students feel excited about learning as the years go on.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 5% of high school students drop out each year, and only 62% of those who do graduate go on to college with even fewer actually graduating college. That’s a lot of potential left untapped. And honestly, it’s not because the kids don’t care—they’re probably bored, overwhelmed, uninspired, or some combination.
But some parents are stepping up, trying to make school feel special again, even beyond the first week. According to research by Keebler and Talker, four in five parents are looking to make back-to-school magical. They want to get their kids exciting about heading back to the classroom. Because if you can hold onto that spark, even a little, you set your kids up not just for success in school but for a lifetime of curiosity and ambition.
1. They’re Surprising Their Kids With Their Favorite Snack
Nothing brightens a kid’s day like finding their favorite snack tucked into their lunchbox. For parents, it’s a simple gesture, but for kids, it’s like a mini celebration in the middle of a long school day.
Parents are going beyond the typical apple or sandwich, packing little surprises like gummy bears, chips, or those coveted cookies that rarely make the grocery list. There’s a moment of joy when they open their lunch and see something they love. It’s a small way to say, “I’m thinking of you,” and it can turn an otherwise boring lunch period into something special.
But it’s more than just a treat. It’s a way of showing support and care, making school feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. Studies have shown that positive reinforcement, even in small forms, can significantly boost a child’s mood and motivation. Kids who feel seen and supported are more likely to stay engaged in their studies and less likely to dread the day. So that snack isn’t just a snack—it’s a boost of confidence, a moment of connection, and a little piece of home that keeps them going.
2. Slipping Notes Into Their Lunchbox
A simple note can make a big difference. Parents are slipping little messages into their kids’ lunchboxes—encouraging words, silly jokes, or just a quick “I love you.” These notes are a sweet reminder that their parents are rooting for them, even when they’re not around. It’s like a secret message from home that makes the day feel a little less daunting. Kids may not always say it, but those notes mean the world, especially on tough days when they need a little extra boost.
The impact of these notes goes beyond the initial smile. It reinforces a positive connection between home and school, reminding kids that they’re not alone in navigating their day. And let’s be real…school can feel like a battlefield sometimes. A note of encouragement can be the difference between giving up on a math problem and trying one more time. It’s a small, simple way to show love and support, and it keeps kids feeling motivated and connected.
3. Giving Their Child a “Lucky Charm” to Help the School Day Go Smoothly
For some parents, a little extra magic comes in the form of a lucky charm. Whether it’s a special bracelet, a tiny toy, or even a keychain, these small tokens are meant to bring comfort and confidence. It’s like giving your child a piece of home that they can carry in their pocket—a secret weapon against anxiety, fear, or even just the everyday stress of school. These lucky charms might seem like tiny trinkets, but they can provide a huge emotional boost.
The concept is simple but powerful: when kids believe they have something special with them, they feel braver, more focused, and ready to tackle the day. It’s a way of grounding them, helping them feel safe and supported even when they’re on their own. This kind of emotional security is crucial, especially in a school environment where pressure and expectations can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Keeping the Magic Alive
The back-to-school season signifies a change for all members of a family,” said Alicia Mosley, Vice President of Marketing, Keebler Brand. “And during this transitional time, there’s plenty of small ways to make a new routine ‘magical’ and help instill that love of learning and school in your child. Whether you’re putting notes in your child’s lunch box or surprising them with their favorite snack, enjoying sweet treats both during and after school can keep the magic alive and make heading back to school exciting.”
In a world that can often feel harsh and demanding, these sparks of imagination and positivity act as a shield. They encourage children to look for the unexpected, to believe that there’s more to life than what meets the eye. It’s these moments of magic that children will cherish long after they’ve outgrown their school backpacks.
Featured Image Credit: Evgeny Atamanenko/Shutterstock.
Theresa is the founder and owner of Simple Is More from Beavercreek, Ohio. She is a nationally syndicated writer whose work has been featured on the Associated Press Wire, Blox Digital, and more. With a passion for words and a love for simplicity, Theresa has built a reputation as a trusted source on minimalism, home organization, budgeting, travel, and wellness. When she's not writing or tidying up, Theresa loves to explore new places, read a good book, and spend quality time with her family.