School’s In! Turn Summer Learning into Back-to-School Confidence

Summer may be behind us, but its effects can linger—especially when it comes to learning. Whether your students were tackling workbooks, exploring outdoors, or taking a total brain break, now’s the time to shift gears and start strong. At Frog Publications, we’re here to help families and educators make the most of those first crucial weeks back in the classroom.

Here are smart, simple ways to turn the page from summer and launch into a successful new school year:

Ease into Structure with Familiar Routines

Returning to the school routine after a summer of flexibility can be overwhelming for students. Help them transition smoothly by reintroducing structure in small, predictable ways.

• Set consistent wake-up and homework times

• Use a “before school” checklist (pack bag, check supplies, eat breakfast)

• Incorporate a short Drops In The Bucket workbook activity into the morning or evening

Review Before You Advance

Instead of jumping right into new material, take time to revisit key concepts from the previous grade. This not only reinforces retention but also helps students feel more prepared and confident.

• Use grade-level workbooks to refresh core reading and math concepts https://www.frog.com/drops-in-the-bucket/

• Encourage students to circle topics that feel tricky so they can review together

• Grab a Back-to-School bundle to keep everything organized:https://www.frog.com/all-bundle-deals/

Spark Engagement with Small Wins

Those first few weeks can shape a child’s mindset for the year. Use simple, motivating goals to show that progress is possible—and even fun.

• Celebrate completed pages, correct answers, or reading passages

• Set mini-goals like “Finish 1 workbook row per night this week”

• Use Frog’s Learning Games as a fun Friday reward https://www.frog.com/frog-super-learning-center-games/

Involve Families in the Learning Process

Parents and caregivers play a key role in reinforcing learning at home. Give them tools and tips to stay engaged without needing teaching experience.

• Schools can engage families at home with our Family Fun-Packs! https://www.frog.com/frog-family-fun-packs/

• Remind parents that just 15 minutes a day can make a difference 

Build Reading Habits Early

Reading is foundational to every subject—and habits built early in the year tend to stick. Make reading part of the daily rhythm from the start.

• Frog Publications’ Drops in the Bucket worksheets help build reading skills with daily practice. https://www.frog.com/drops-in-the-bucket/

• Turn book passages into discussion starters or mini “book club” moments

• Encourage kids to share a favorite summer memory through writing or illustration

Set the Tone with Encouragement

More than anything, kids need to feel capable and supported. A positive tone in the classroom or at home builds confidence and sets them up for long-term success.

• Use positive language like “You’re ready!” and “Let’s tackle this together.”

• Show students their progress by revisiting earlier workbook pages

• Celebrate effort—not just correct answers

Back-to-School is a Fresh Start
With Frog Publications, you don’t need a perfect summer to have a great school year. Whether your learners are catching up or ready to leap ahead, our flexible, research-backed materials help you meet them where they are—and move them forward.

Find your grade-level resources here: www.frog.com/Shop-By-Grade