To get your child off to a great start
Whether your child is just entering elementary school or is further along, the way they begin the school year can determine how the rest of the year will go.
• Establish a routine. Kids thrive on predictability. Establish a regular time for homework. Set and stick to a regular bedtime. Plan a morning routine that gets everyone out the door (or on Zoom!) on time.
• Review school safety. Talk to your child about the need to follow school rules. Also talk about ways to be safe when riding the school bus, walking to school, and interacting with others.
• Get to know your child’s teacher. When parents and teachers work together, kids do better in school.
• Set goals. Students who do well in school have both short- and long-term goals. Whether it’s earning an “A” in math or preparing to become a veterinarian, goals help keep your child motivated and focused.
• Be genuinely interested in your child’s schoolwork. Ask your child about what they are learning in school every day.
• Don’t over schedule your child. Give them time to unwind after school—especially as they adjust during the first few weeks.
Seven Habits of Highly Responsible Students
It is evident that responsible students grow up to be responsible adults. Responsible students don’t have any one secret for their success…but they do practice some habits that help them. Here are seven helpful habits that can help your child become more responsible.
1.) They set goals. Goals keep kids focused on the future. They are the foundation of responsible behavior. Goals help students focus on what’s important and what’s not. If they have a vision of where they want to go, they’re more likely to get there.
2.) They plan their time. Responsible people meet their obligations. Help your child use a big calendar to organize his/her time. Write down all their commitments and use the calendar to plan time for homework each day.
3.) They study every day. Responsible students set aside time for homework and studying every day.
4.) They take notes in class. Teachers will almost always spell out what they think is important (and what’s likely to be on the test). Encourage your child to take notes and spend time reviewing them before the test.
5.) They have the tools they need. Responsible students need to remember to bring pencils, paper and other tools that they need for class.
6.) They keep their commitments. Responsible students honor their commitments to others and to themselves. They succeed in school by doing their assignments well and on time. You can teach your child about commitments by setting a good example. Children feel a sense of satisfaction when they honor their commitments.
7.) They get ready ahead of time. Responsible students have learned that being late, or being early, is not something that simply happens to them. It is a choice they can make. Some students start out every morning in a crisis. Teach your child to take 5 or 10 minutes before bedtime to get ready for the next day.