NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – We’re not only getting the kids ready for when classes start, but parents also need to prepare.

Gena Jefferson, licensed clinical social worker, spent 20 years with the Department of Education working in schools. She visited The Couch to talk about how families can work together to prepare for the year ahead.

Aside from medical check-ups, parents need to focus on changing habits.

“You definitely want to start beginning to re-pattern their sleep habits,” she said “Because they’ve been up  late at night and getting up late in the morning. You definitely want to do some test runs.”

Make a journal to write down goals and problem areas that the entire family can focus on.

Ask your child what went well for them last year, what do they want to do better on? What are your expectations for this coming year?

“As adults, you might want to do some goal setting as a family,” she said.

For more, check out the full interview below.