Here we go again! It’s time for shiny new shoes, logoed
backpacks and bright-eyed kids excited to meet their new teacher and
re-acquaint with schoolmates. Back to school optimism is contagious and we want
to keep that positive momentum going beyond the first week of school. Here are
six sure-fire ways to keep the school year successful and keep motivation high.
1.
Get the kids to school on time. Students who are
consistently late miss curriculum. They often interrupt instruction and that
can be embarrassing. It may even be punitive. The making of a pleasant morning
starts the night before. Bedtime routine is as important in junior high as it
is in kindergarten. According to The American Academy of Sleep Medicine,
school-age kids need 10 to 11 hours of sleep a day.
2.
After school time must be supervised. Lollygagging in
the playground after school is not time well spent; it can be dangerous for
your child and a liability for the school. If your schedule does not allow a
pick up by 3pm, arrange for an after school activity or program. Check to see
if your school has after school care. Often the local library offers a homework
club.
3.
Help with Homework. As a former teacher, I’m a firm
believer that homework should be based on review curriculum and should be able
to be completed unassisted. All teachers do not have this philosophy. Many
times kids need parental involvement. Don’t hesitate to explain directions,
read aloud information and solve math problems together. Ask your child’s
teacher how much time should be spent on homework and discuss modifications if
need be.
4.
Communicate often with teachers. No need to wait for
the teacher to contact you. Be proactive. Many important announcements,
permission slips, assignments, flyers and graded papers do not make it from the
classroom to your kitchen table. This is especially true in middle school. A
weekly or biweekly chat or email with the teacher will alleviate this potential
problem.
5.
Share family news. No needs to get super personal but
if something is affecting your child’s behavior, attitude or work habits, share
it with his teacher. The more informed the teacher, the better able she is to empathize
with your child and modify curriculum and/or class time and activities to
ensure your child’s success and security.
6.
Get and keep your child organized. Checking backpacks
at least once a week may reveal important papers and even half-eaten lunches.
Keep a neat, well-supplied homework space and talk to your child about upcoming
family and school events. A conspicuous calendar with relevant dates and the
family agenda can be a lifesaver.
The stress and strain of helping the kids with homework,
perusing mounds of paperwork and preparing clothes and lunches can be
overwhelming but is well worth the time and energy. We all know that learning
is not confined to the four walls of a classroom. Be kind and congratulatory to
you kids and yourself. As parents we want to role model competence and hard
work, but we also want to acknowledge that hard work leads to sweet rewards.
Contact Margaret Lavin at elementarydays@gmail.com.
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