Return To School

Each year in September parents and children are excited about the new school year ahead. Parents are happy to settle into a routine after the hectic summer activities and children look forward to seeing old and new friends. That is the best case scenario. For some families the return to school represents stress and anxiety about the year to come.
What can families do to ensure the return to school is a positive experience for both the students and family life?

• Families can take advantage of newspapers articles, radio and television programs that seek to inform parents of things that will help students make a successful beginning.
• Schools themselves provide supply lists in advance so parents can prepare children before school actually begins.
• Also, there is usually a parent night early in the year for teachers to inform parents of the curriculum, expectation for homework and other important events to come in the year.

In spite of such prompts to help students have a successful year, many children and families still feel out of touch and find they are playing catch-up. What are some activities that families can initiate that will make the beginning of a new school year more pleasant experience for everyone involved?

Take the following mini-quiz to see where changes in family life can potentially make a huge difference for the entire school year, not just the beginning.

1. Does your child have an earlier bedtime for the school months?
2. Have adjustments been made in the time spent on TV, video games , computers and other leisure activities as the school year begins?
3. Has homework time and place been established?
4. Is there designated reading and mental math time for school evenings?
5. Have plans been made to go to the local library?

Each of these questions provides an opportunity for discussion and negotiation between parents and children. Once decisions have been made, consistency of practice will keep everyone on track. Change takes time and requires patience but the rewards can be great. The best time to begin is today. Good luck.

Posted by Dr Pauline Mesher | Email a comment