Child Psychologist Offers Back-to-School Readiness Tips for Salt Lake City Parents
Child psychologist Dr. Doug Goldsmith provides advice to parents in Salt Lake City on how to prepare children for the upcoming school year. Key recommendations include re-establishing routines, consistent communication through family dinners, prioritizing homework and tasks before screen time,…
Salt Lake City, UT, July 29, 2026 —
As the new school year approaches, parents in Salt Lake City are receiving guidance from child psychologist Dr. Doug Goldsmith on how to best prepare their children for a smooth transition back into academic life. Dr. Goldsmith’s advice focuses on practical strategies to help children readjust after the summer break.
One of the primary recommendations is the re-establishment of routines. Dr. Goldsmith emphasizes that consistent daily schedules, covering everything from waking up to bedtime, can significantly reduce anxiety and improve focus for children. This includes setting predictable times for meals, homework, and leisure activities.
Consistent communication is another cornerstone of Dr. Goldsmith’s advice. He suggests utilizing family dinners as a dedicated time for open dialogue. This setting can provide a relaxed environment for children to share their experiences, concerns, and excitement about returning to school, fostering a stronger family connection.
Dr. Goldsmith also advises parents to prioritize academic tasks over screen time. He recommends that homework and other essential responsibilities should be completed before allowing children access to electronic devices. This approach helps instill a sense of responsibility and reinforces the importance of educational duties.
A critical point raised by Dr. Goldsmith is the need to adjust sleep schedules. Many children experience disruptions to their sleep patterns during the summer months. To avoid the detrimental effects of what he terms “jet lag” from summer schedules, parents should gradually shift their children’s bedtime and wake-up times closer to the school-year routine in the weeks leading up to the first day of classes.
Implementing these strategies can help children feel more prepared and confident as they head back to school, supporting their academic and emotional well-being.
Story summarized from the original created by Dan Evans on www.fox13now.com, see more information here.
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