It’s that time of the year again when the sun rises later and sets earlier, the weather is just a bit serener and windy and a new school year begins…
It’s the time when the new school year students are bombarded with tons of “back to school” sales from different stores. They proceed to think, how are they going to make this school year more fun yet productive.
Beginning of a New School Year
Although we give children much credit for being able to adapt to various situations, likewise beginning a new phase, the beginning of a new school year can definitely be stressful. The newbie students get an immense wave of excitement and nervousness at the same time.
How can parents reduce the stress
One effective way of reducing this stress is to expose your child to their new environment before the first day of their school. Walk or drive through the route they will typically take to the school. Evoke their zeal and zest by pointing out fun things like the nearby parks they will likely play at.
Develop their habits for school
About a week or maybe a month before school starts, try to get them back into their school year sleeping habits so they will tend to be more rested for the first day of a new stage. Make a strict schedule for your child because extracurricular activities are fun but make sure you are leaving adequate time for homework and studying as well as giving your child a designated area at home where work can be done quietly.
Your Duties as a Parent
Proactive parents can make a huge difference in the schooling of a child. It is important to directly link with the teachers and not wait for the first parent teacher conference day to let them know your concerns. Rather, speak with them ahead of time or in the beginning of the school year and know about your child’s progress. That way, you go into the school year with a game plan at hand.
Help Them with Their Homework but Don’t Do it
While important to be practical in your child’s education, it is important not to do the work for them, particularly homework. Homework is typically designed to reinforce what was learned in class that day. Spending hours on end helping with homework, without the teacher knowing your child is having trouble understanding the material, does not benefit him or her in the long run.
Support them in Goal Setting
It comes naturally to set goals for children as well as creating a desire in them to succeed their aims. But first, help them in designing their goals. Importantly, don’t forget to ask them what they want to achieve this school year, besides, avoid shoving your desires on them. A child who sets goals for itself and is internally motivated will find a way throughout its life.