Finding Structure in a New School Year

Every school year brings about a new type of excitement than the year before. Children are advancing to the next grade level, meeting new friends, and receiving additional responsibilities. Kids will waste no time exchanging phone numbers and online profiles, teachers have already written lesson plans, and some students are traveling to and from school alone for the first time. With all of this excitement, it is important to remember a few basic rules to ensure your student is successful this year.

Begin with a home ritual. Monitor the time your student arrives home. Connect with teachers’ resources to view assigned lessons. Many of these resources are available online. Designate appropriate times for television and social activities, such as social media and cellular usage, after homework and studying is completed. Children should receive at least eight hours rest to allow their minds to refresh and their bodies to rejuvenate. A hearty breakfast each morning will help jump start their minds and keep them alert in class. Most schools now even serve breakfast.

There should be rules and expectations developed with your student for the upcoming school year. Discuss the upcoming schedule, as well as any fears and goals the child may have. Write a mission and vision statement and post in a visible place. Develop a plan of action, should the student find difficulty staying on track. Add checkpoint dates and outside of progress report dates to help everyone stay informed.

We all know how exciting, yet frightening, a new school year can be. Parents are managing vigorous work schedules, focusing on bills, managing households, and raising future leaders. Adding a little structure to a bit of the upcoming chaos can help everyone breathe easier, focus on their tasks, and manage their time wisely. Setting attainable goals, with a viable support system, creates a win-win situation. Share your agreements and goals with us at www.facebook.com/aquantumleap.