The beginning of a new school year can be the start of a journey
toward success if parents, students and teachers work together.
Here are some suggestions for parents who want to help their
child start the new school year right.
Start talking now about the upcoming school year and the first
day of classes. Discuss what to expect on the first day -
catching up with old friends and meeting new ones, learning
classroom rules and finding out what's ahead. Take note of how
you feel about your child going off to school. If you're
anxious, try not to let it show!
If you're new to the area, take time to visit the school before
classes begin. Walk, drive or show your child the bus route to
familiarize him or her with the trip to school.
Getting to Know You
Make time to get to know
your child's teacher. Let the teacher know you appreciate
feedback on your child's progress - both positive and negative.
Alert the teacher to anything out of the ordinary that's going
on with your child or family. Make a point of meeting other
school staff members: the principal, school secretary, bus
driver, cafeteria staff and others who work at the school. The
better you know the school and how it operates, the more likely
your child will be to have a productive and positive school
experience.
A Place of One's Own
Whether it's a bedroom desk or the kitchen table, every child
needs a regular place to study and complete homework. This area
should be well lighted and equipped with school supplies like
paper and pencils. Siblings should respect the
time set aside for studying and not distract the child who is
doing homework.
Kids (and Parents) Love Routines
Set aside a specific time for studying every night. Discuss with
your child what time of day would work best - Right after
school? Just before dinner? Immediately following dinner? If
your child attends an after-school program, find out if students
will be expected to do homework there. If your child completes
homework assignments away from home, plan to review the work at
a set time every night. If homework has already been completed,
have the child use study time for reading or reviewing problem
areas.
Reading Can Be Contagious
Research shows that children who are read to in their early
years do better in school. Make reading a habit in your home,
for both you and your child. Each night before bed, read to your
child for at least 20 minutes. If the child is learning to read,
ask him or her to read to you. For older children, set 30
minutes aside each night for family reading time when everyone
reads together silently. Keep plenty of reading materials
available - books, magazines and newspapers. Let your kids see
you reading and they're more likely to pick up the habit.
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