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.
