As summer winds down and thoughts turn to the upcoming school year, parents and caregivers are faced with the challenge of ensuring a smooth transition for their children. To address the stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges that can arise during this period, Compass Health Center has developed Ready, Set, School—a comprehensive in-person and virtual program designed to provide support and equip students with the necessary skills to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. In this blog post, we will explore the key components of the Ready, Set, School program and how it can benefit students and their families in preparing for and transitioning to a successful school year. 

"As the 2023-2024 school year approaches, Compass hopes to help families be proactive in coping ahead for the stressors of the school year. Compass programming engages kids in small groups to help them practice skills that translate into success in an academic classroom setting. We aid kids and families in building skills through interactive programming that is engaging while also challenging them to grow,” said Claire Conway, LCSW, Director of Child Program, Compass Health Center – Northbrook. 

Addressing Common Challenges 

The transition from summer vacation to the school routine can be overwhelming for many students. Ready, Set, School acknowledges the various challenges they may face, such as changes in routine, academic pressures, social adjustments, body and identity changes, and technology overload. By utilizing evidence-based therapy modalities and adopting a multidisciplinary approach, the program creates an inclusive and supportive environment where students can develop the skills needed to navigate these challenges and not only succeed but thrive. 

Equipping Students with Essential Skills 

One of the primary objectives of the Ready, Set, School program is to equip students with evidence-based skills that will set them up for success in the new school year. By focusing on positive peer interactions, executive functioning skills and themes such as time management and effective prioritizing and planning-ahead, making responsible choices, and balancing screen time, the program addresses crucial areas of development for students. These skills not only contribute to their academic performance but also foster healthy relationships and overall well-being. 

The Importance of Family Support 

Recognizing the integral role of families in a child's development, the Ready, Set, School program places a strong emphasis on family support. Compass Health Center offers dedicated family coaching to provide parents and caregivers with the necessary skills to effectively support their child's growth and development. Through this coaching, families learn effective strategies for setting limits, creating a structured environment, and supporting their child's success both inside and outside the classroom. By working collaboratively with families, the program aims to foster a holistic approach to student well-being. 

Tailored Support for School Challenges 

Ready, Set, School is specifically designed to address the unique challenges commonly faced by students. Whether your child struggles with sustaining friendships, managing screen time, tolerating discomfort, navigating transitions, adapting to change, structuring their time effectively, or accepting rules, this program provides the support and guidance necessary to overcome these obstacles. By tailoring interventions to meet individual needs, the program ensures that each student receives the targeted assistance required for their personal growth and development. 

Program Information 

The Ready, Set, School program is designed for students grades 6 to 8 and will be launching on July 31, 2023, with rolling admissions. Compass Virtual offers this program to kids ages 13 and up, including those transitioning to high school or already in high school. 

To learn more about the program or to enroll your child, please contact our team. We are dedicated to providing the support and resources needed to help your child embark on a successful school year. 

 As parents and caregivers, we want the best for our school-aged children as they navigate the challenges of the school environment. Compass Health Center's Ready, Set, School program offers a unique opportunity to address the emotional, social, and academic needs of students during this critical transition. By providing evidence-based group and individual therapy modalities, a focus on essential skills, dedicated family support, and tailored interventions delivered by a multidisciplinary treatment team, this program equips students with the tools they need to thrive.  

Contact us today to enroll your child in Ready, Set, School and embark on a journey towards a successful school year.