Back to school can be an exciting yet frustrating time for parents and students. Parents tirelessly bombard area stores to prepare their child for the first day of school. But there is more to be done than shopping for pencils and notebooks. Taking the time to prepare your child mentally for the next school year can be very beneficial to their success. Schedule a special lunch or call a family meeting to discuss and establish goals for the upcoming school year. Below are some key talking points to discuss with your child(ren).
- Identify your child’s role in school. Who they are, where they are going, and why they are there (at school). Clearly define the child’s purpose (job) in the upcoming school year. Example: Johnny, you will be going into fifth grade at Smith Elementary School. Your job this year is to master each subject to the best of your ability.
- Discuss the importance of staying on a schedule. Set the clock for wake and bedtime and practice this schedule at least three days prior to the first day of school.
- Be prepared with all the needed supplies for the first day of school.
- Set a routine for selecting school appropriate attire the night before can eliminate chaos in the morning. Clean, wrinkle-free, clothes will make your child feel and look better.
- Discuss with your child that their new classmates will likely be from different cultural backgrounds and different living conditions.
- Remind your child that kindness, good sportsmanship, and respect for others is key to working and playing well with others.
- Discuss the classroom rules and routines with your child so they understand that you know what is expected of them.
- Set rules for appropriate cell phone usage during the school day (if applicable).
- Discuss with the new teacher on how best to contact you. Make it a point to check your child’s progress. When in doubt talk to the teacher(s). Let your child know you will be keeping in touch with their teacher and their progress.
- Good behavior and polite manners are not an accident. They are learned skills and need to be practiced. Children imitate what they see at home. If you regard teachers and education as important your child will as well. Remember the adage “Practice Makes Perfect”.
Success in any endeavor is not an accident. It takes careful thought, planning, and preparation. Clearly defining expectations, rules, and routines, in the beginning, will set a roadmap to a successful school year.
