School bells are ringing, and you don’t want to be tardy for the best school year yet! Scholastic gathered tips from trusted teachers to make sure you start the academic year on the right foot.
Bedtime
During the summer, you probably were lenient with your child’s bedtime routine. On the first day of school, when the alarm clock sounds, you don’t want the kid’s bodies to go into shock, or them to be exhausted by lunch, so start now by going to bed at a good time. Waking up at the time you would on a regular school morning is sure to get you back in the school groove.
Map it Out
Is your child headed to a new school? To put their worries at ease, and make them comfortable for the first day, take them to the school weeks in advance to locate classrooms. Find their teacher’s room, the lunchroom, gym, library, and any other important areas so they will lead the school year with confidence.
Connect With the Teacher
Don’t be a stranger to your child’s teacher! Whether your student is going through a behavioral rough patch, or they have health issues the teacher should be aware of, it all starts with communication. Attend “meet the teacher,” or send them an email at the beginning of the school year to introduce yourself.
Get Involved
Making your child excited about learning all starts with getting involved at school events. From clubs to sports teams, and becoming friends with fellow parents, if you seem eager about the school, your child will too.
Allocate Reading Time
If you are looking for a way for you and your child to spend time together, allocate 30 minutes in the afternoon or after dinner to read together. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be shocked when you get the word from your child’s teacher that your star student is reading above the average level!
Be a Listening Ear
Every day after school, ask your child how their day was. Instead of ending the conversation there, ask for specific things they learned, what they ate for lunch, or what classmate they sat next to. Watch for changes in sleep or eating patterns, which would be an indicator they are having a difficult time adjusting.
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