As we round out summer break and thoughts turn to “back to school,” mixed emotions are sure to be the order of the day for many students. Kids may dislike their free time ending and homework returning, but they are probably looking forward to seeing friends and learning new things.
As parents, no doubt you want your children to enjoy school — or at the very least, not hate it! They spend so much time at school, and we know it’s hard for them to get the education they need for college, careers and adulthood if they’re bemoaning their circumstances. As such, parents must take the necessary measures to ensure their children are set up for schooling success.
Although parents can’t control a child’s attitude toward school, they can definitely influence it. The following are ways to do just that.
Recognize that your attitude is contagious.Your enthusiasm about school should start early — before preschool — and become a lifelong habit. Channel the zeal you feel about your favorite hobby when you talk to your child about all the reasons school is amazing: the importance of education, how fun it is to learn, how awesome it is to make friends. Try not to be cranky in the morning. Wake up a little earlier and have a cup of coffee before you wake your kids, if necessary. Anything it takes to get them to school on time and send them off with a smile.
Keep communication lines open. First, build a relationship with your child’s teachers, volunteering at school if possible but, if not, staying informed by reading newsletters and emails. Speak about teachers respectfully to your children so that they will respect and obey them. Talk frequently to your kids as well. Be curious about their homework, classroom experiences and friends. Ask discussion questions at non-threatening times, such as while going for a walk or doing fun things together.
Manage anxiety, which can take many forms. Separation anxiety most frequently occurs during times of family stress or when a child is about to enter a new school. Combat it with one-time statements such as “I will see you after school and I am confident that you will be okay” and “You can talk to (name of trusted adult) if you need help.” If your child’s anxiety is related to school work, help them learn how to break big projects into measurable chunks, and take more practice tests at home.
Work the “friend” angle. Sometimes, kids need tips on how to make friends, so teach them how to introduce themselves, find common interests and become an active listener. If your child is struggling socially, make the teacher aware. Teachers are great at identifying kids who have similar interests and facilitating connections. Support budding friendships by scheduling play dates or other activities they can do with friends that revolve around that common interest.
Prepare to problem solve with an open mind. If your child is struggling academically and your homework and studying strategies aren’t cutting it, bring in support, such as hiring a tutor. Don’t rule out a big change, such as changing a classroom or even changing schools. Such situations are atypical, but occasionally they’re exactly what the student needs.
From all of us at Strategic Advantage, we’re wishing you and your children a successful school year!
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