Family & Relationships

Family Survival Guide for Back to School

By Stephanie Lyas

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":

1.

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.

2.

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.

3.

Communicate openly with your child about what your expectations are and teach them the importance of setting personal goals. Be supportive and encouraging.

4.

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.

5.

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.

6.

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.

7.

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.

8.

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.

9.

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.

10.

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!

Stephanie Lyas is Founder of The S.T.E.P. Kids Network (Success Through Empowerment Programs). She has over fifteen years of experience working with children and families in the fields of Human Development and Family Studies and Psychology. She is a freelance writer of children's fiction and inspirational literature for adults.


 
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