Now that summer is over and school has started up again, it’s back to the books!

For some people it is much harder to get back into the school routine than for others. Of course, you have to get back into your sleep schedule, get to school on time, make sure you have all your things, get your homework done, and so forth.

If you’re like me, getting back into the school routine takes a little time. There are lots of things that students can do to be successful in school, such as participating in class and staying organized.

Dan Sweeney, the 4th-5th Grade Division head at Seattle Country Day School said, “Students should take risks, ask questions and realize that mistakes are all a part of the learning process.”

He also said that students should not feel shy about asking a teacher or parent for help. “Students should feel comfortable asking for help when they feel unsure about anything at school,” said Sweeney.

Some of the best things you can do to when you’re getting back into school must be done during the summer. Jennifer Reubish, a kindergarten teacher at Peter Kirk Elementary said, “I suggest you set aside a little bit of study or learning time every day even during vacation to help yourself get back into the routine.”

Reubish also suggests that after school, you leave yourself 30 minutes to relax before you do your homework. But don’t put it off too long! Doing homework when you are tired can make you angry or frustrated.

Sophia Beams, a third grader and Kirkland resident, agrees.

“Don’t wait until the last second to do your homework,” she said.

Sometimes kids like to do their homework in peaceful and quiet places where their siblings aren’t running around and parents aren’t hovering.

The Kirkland Library has a free program for helping kids with homework called Study Zone. Volunteer tutors are available to help students do their homework. All students in grades K-12 are welcome to attend. Contact the Kirkland Library for more information.

These are just a few tips to help you get back into school after the long summer break. The start of a school year is always exciting, but it takes time to get adjusted to your new school routine. I’m now off to go get started on that math homework!

Nine-year-old Allison Hoff lives in Kirkland.