Back to School

Back

Back to School...

getting off to a good start

So much for those carefree summer days without a schedule and all those long lazy afternoons... on the other hand, no more frantically searching for things for your children to do and friends for play dates.

As school begins anew there are many things that can help your children get off to a good start.

First Timer

If you have a kindergartner, it is a good idea to pay several visits to the school and check out the classroom. Get them very comfortable with their surroundings before you leave them there on that first morning. While many children have had preschool experience, the primary school is quite different. There are many more children in the classroom and less “play time.” Your child will read your reactions on that first day and while we all are a bit emotional about watching our little one enter this new phase of life, it's better to save the tears for the lonely drive home. Although, what you may be feeling is just “motherly” or “fatherly” at watching your little one go through the door, often children interpret this as anxiety on your part and internalize that feeling. A crying child every morning is of course not the goal, so... it is much better to deliver them with a smile and a hug and an “everything is great here” attitude. Within a few days you’ll be amazed at their independence, but so much of that depends on you. If there are a few tears, it's normal and almost never lasts longer that a few minutes. As soon as they get busy, the kindergarten becomes their home away from home. Any concerns you have should be addressed privately with the teacher.

New at School

f your child is entering a new school pretty much the same things apply. Visit the school so that he/she knows their way around. If possible, introduce them to someone who will be in their class. Check in with the office to find out what they need to bring to school those first few days. Nothing feels worse than being the only one in the class that doesn’t have all the “essentials” on that first day. Make sure that you arrive a little early to meet the teacher and allow your child not to be pressured by rushing in at the last minute. Again, reassure them that you know it is going to be a good experience and an opportunity to make new friends.

For All Students

School makes up a large part of your child’s day, so the goal is to make each day go as smoothly as possible. One way to do that is to actually read all the material that the school sends home. I know, I know, there are three places you have to deliver the kids and dinner to make etc, etc... By the way, make sure to question your child about papers you are supposed to see. They often go back and forth to school for days before you get to see them. Such things as permission slips, lunch orders, coming events, not mention notes from the teacher consistently are sent, but not seen.

Establish rules early in the year and be consistent so that your child knows they are not negotiable.

A time and place for homework to be done.
A reasonable bedtime.
Everything needed for the morning: clothes, backpack (with homework and books inside), snack, lunch and any extras needed for that day

These few little tips will help your child get off to a good start and form habits that allow them to have a much smoother year!

CustomWebsiteDesignServices.com