Getting children off on right foot in school
Those who have children starting back to school, or starting school for the first time, may be looking for ways to increase the likelihood that these children will look on their experience with happiness, fulfillment and success.
As in many human endeavors, getting off to the right start is important. Proper preparation and mind set can help the family lay the proper groundwork for a satisfying experience during the school year.
My wife and I started our first school year as parents 18 years ago when our first child started to kindergarten. As this school year begins we draw from experiences that we found to be useful. Giving our children the proper emotional environment can assist them greatly in accomplishing their goals in school. Other parents may want to consider some of these guidelines:
• Display enthusiasm for education and what it provides to your children. Let them know that you look forward with excitement to their adventures this year.
• Show support for their education by letting them know you intend to be involved in PTA and other volunteer assignments at the school.
• Assist them, when appropriate, with homework and special assignments. Homework may be something they can do at home, not always an extension of their work done in school.
• Provide the proper environment for home study by giving them a place that is free from distraction, with the proper light, space and comfort.
• Help them pursue the most important element of education – the desire to learn for the sake of learning – by continuing educational pursuits yourself. Read worthwhile books and let them serve as a topic for family discussions at mealtime. Teach something yourself. You may lead a Sunday school class, be a community volunteer, assist as Scout leader, teach crafts or cooking or sewing.
• Never let your child develop the belief that education is drudgery, an endurance contest or a contest for grades. Don’t demand they be the best in everything. Your child may be good in math, not as strong in writing skills. Accept their abilities and work with them. When you give them feedback about their performance, emphasize that every day is an opportunity to learn from experience.
• Send your child to school armed with information for self-preservation. Emphasize bus safety, bike safety and traffic markings. Repeat the old adage about not accepting rides from strangers. Teach them to report suspicious cars or people to school authorities immediately.
• Have concern for their nutrition during the school day.
The school lunch program provides a balanced meal, but you may prefer to pack them a school lunch containing items they enjoy.
• Send them off each morning on a happy note and be ready to listen when you are reunited in the afternoon.
• Most importantly, examine your own attitude about education. You should view it as one of the cornerstones of your children’s lives, an investment in their future health and happiness.
