It doesnt matter whether you are sending your child off to college for the first time, or your two year old is starting a two-day preschool program, a new school year is just around the corner. Some children love school, while others dread it. Growing up, I was one of those weird kids that loved school. Every year at about this time, my mother would take me school shopping for new clothes and school supplies. I dont know if it was the shopping I loved, or the anticipation of a new school year.
In our family, education is important to us. We work hard to instill good success habits, and with these ideas, you and your children can enjoy a successful school year too.
Establish Solid Morning, After School and Bedtime Routines
I first learned about the importance of solid routines when I was raising my oldest son Kai. In the third grade, Kai was diagnosed with ADHD. Keeping my son focused enough to get ready for school and do his homework required consistency and structure. I made up sheets of paper that listed every step he should take in the morning, after school, and before bed. When setting up routines, be specific and follow the same routine all the time. Routines establish good habits in children and adults.
Goal Setting is Not Just for Adults - Children Can Learn Too
The sooner we teach our children to set goals, the better. While they are young (under age 12), encourage your children to set one academic goal and one behavioral goal each year. For instance, I will refrain from hitting my sister when I get angry. Academic goals can include completing homework on time, setting up a consistent reading program, or increasing a grade in a particular subject. As children reach middle school age, they can begin to learn how to set bigger goals or set a larger number of goals each year. To remind your children what their goals are, get creative and make a colorful goals sheet or vision board.
Communication is Essential
Last year was a challenging year for my younger son. Constant communication with him and regular check ins with his teacher were critical to helping him be successful in school. A child will not always readily share what is going on at school. While some may openly share the ups and downs, for others it is necessary to ask open ended questions that encourage them to talk. Children will share more easily when parents are emotionally available and can listen without judgment. Create a space during bedtime or playtime to allow your children to freely communicate with you.
Stay Tuned In to Your Childs Interests and Talents
Every child is unique. While some thrive in sports, others are more prone to musical, academic or artistic abilities. Pay attention to what gives your children energy, and what activities they naturally gravitate towards. Nurture those interests and talents so they feel confident about being good in something. Help them to define who they are and what makes them special. There is so much competition and comparisons in schools today. Steer your children away from comparing themselves to others, and instead encourage them to compete with their own personal best. For example, when I took my son and a friend bowling, we didnt compete against each other. In the second game, we tried to beat our score from the first game.
Help Your Child Minimize Stress
Stress is all around us, and children are not immune to it. Children deal with their own stress: peer pressure or school bullies, intense sports competition, and academic struggles. Stay tuned in to what could be causing stress for your child. It's never too early to learn stress management techniques. In our home, we regularly work with our seven year old, teaching him how to plan better, control negative thinking, or combat fears and anxieties. Keep the family calendar balanced by minimizing after school and evening activities. Take care of yourself and your family by modeling healthy eating, exercise and proper sleep.
My first born is a freshman in college, and my youngest is in second grade this year. We are anticipating a successful school year, and with these tips your family can enjoy the same.
About the Author:
Lori Radun is an expert mom coach and author of The Momnificent! Life ~ Healthy and Balanced Living for Busy Moms. To receive her free reports "155 Things Moms Can Do to Raise Great Children" and "52 Positive Affirmations for Busy Moms" visit Momnificent or stop by her continuously updated blog.
Get all the information and photos:: http://coringa.info/parenting/ensuring-school-success-for-your-child
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