It's that time of the year again and parents
and students alike are beginning to feel the
stress that goes with heading back to class.
Between shopping trips for those "must
have" back- to-school bargains and winding
down all of the summertime activities, families
often need a little help preparing for the
school year. Sure, crayons, pencils and notebooks
are important tools for achieving success
in the classroom, but kids also need empowerment
tools at home that will foster their success
far beyond their school years. These simple
guidelines will help the entire family avoid
singing the "Back to School Blues":
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1.
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Take
a few extra minutes the night before
to prepare for the day ahead. Let the
kids help fix lunches, lay out clothes,
etc. Things are likely to go much smoother
when you're not in a mad rush to get
out the door in the morning.
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2.
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Make
sure that kids get a good night's rest.
Begin setting curfews and bedtimes a
few weeks prior to the first day of
school to get everyone on a schedule.
Establish bedtime rituals and be consistent
throughout the school year.
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3.
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Communicate
openly with your child about what your
expectations are and teach them the
importance of setting personal goals.
Be supportive and encouraging.
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4.
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Encourage
your child to ask for help with homework,
class assignments or projects when needed.
Let kids know that it is okay to not
know all the answers. Then, provide
the proper support that they need. Find
a good tutor or contact the school or
local library for help.
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5.
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Provide
a quiet spot for kids to unwind and
study that is free of distractions like
television or phones. Allow them take
breaks periodically, but make sure that
they stay on task and complete each
assignment.
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6.
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Look
for the warning signs that might indicate
that your child may be having difficulty
in school. Changes in mood, behavior
or sleep patterns might indicate that
a more serious problem needs to be addressed.
Ask questions if you suspect something
may be going on. Most importantly, listen
when they want to talk.
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7.
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Reward
kids with positive words when they do
well, but don't make them feel that
they must "perform" well to
earn your approval. Phrases like "You're
great" or "I'm proud of you"
will boost confidence and build a positive
self-image. Celebrate even the smallest
achievements.
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8.
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Familiarize
yourself with your child's teacher early
in the school year. Learn his or her
teaching style and communicate regularly.
Address any concerns you may have regarding
your child's progress in a courteous
and respectful manner. See the teacher
as an ally, not an enemy to your child's
success.
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9.
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Avoid
too many extracurricular activities.
Ballet, piano and soccer are all great,
but not all in one afternoon. Scheduling
too many activities can be grueling-
to both parents and children. Remember,
kids are people too. Like grown-ups,
they require balance in their lives,
as well as adequate rest of their minds
and bodies.
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10.
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Encourage
kids to work hard, have fun and do their
personal best. In the long run, they
will thank you and will have the success
to show it!
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