The lazy days of summer are over and it’s time to look ahead to another
busy school season. You’re in the process of purchasing new school clothes
and supplies for the year, and the kids are gearing up to meet their new
teachers. They’ll also reacquaint themselves with their schoolmates. It’s a
time for new beginnings and fresh starts. Here are five tips to make sure
your children get off to a smooth start this September:
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Have a family meeting
It’s wise to make a clear transition from relaxed summer days to a workable
fall schedule. It’s important that children know their adult family members
support their learning, and one way to get everyone on board is to have a
family meeting. Each family member has input in setting expectations for
such things as homework times, television privileges, telephone and texting
time, bedtimes and how many after school activities will be part of the new
year. Post the schedule where all can see, as the whole family is entering
into a new school year and ready for success. -
Do the Basics
Make sure they’re alert and ready for the school day – it’s important for
children to begin each day with a healthy breakfast. It’s not just the
nutrition that’s important, it’s also a time for the family to gather
strength for the day together!
Children must be taught to be on time. It’s a habit that will benefit them
throughout their lives. Teach your kids the importance of building a
reputation for being responsible in this important way.
Encourage children to be ready to learn. This means sending supplies,
forms, fees or whatever has been requested by the school in a timely
manner. Homework should be kept in a special folder ready to turn in. -
Engage!
Make sure a family member attends back to school nights and open houses,
and whenever possible, volunteer to help with class parties, field trips
and special projects. If you’re a working mom or dad, make a special effort
to find at least one way you can support your child’s teacher. Plan ahead
and add school events such as music programs, PTA events and curriculum
nights to your monthly calendars. -
Build a Team
It’s important to stay in touch with your child’s teacher. You need to know
what’s happening in the classroom and also inform the teacher of anything
out of the ordinary at home, such as emotional loss or health concerns.
When you communicate clearly, you build a relationship with the school that
supports learning. Many schools have websites to keep families informed of
school events, but don’t forget to regularly look for bulletins and
newsletters in those backpacks. A parent-teacher team builds the strongest possible support for a child’s learning success.The goal, of course, is a positive, healthy start to a new school year for
the whole family. Challenges will come over the course of the year, but a
solid beginning with every family member on board will do wonders to ensure
smooth sailing this September.
Create Personalized Study Spaces
Here’s your chance to encourage your children to develop good study habits.
Help them create and personalize a study area at home. You can work
together to organize and plan the décor. It’s amazing how a few
contact paper-wrapped cans and some bright new pencils can perk up a work
area. Buy a simple plastic organizer tray or use some recycled boxes to
store rulers, erasers, scissors, glue and other necessary supplies. Add a
nametag, stickers, drawings, pictures – anything that makes it a special
place to settle in and get homework done.
