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Aug 12, 2008 2:13 pm US/Central
Helpful Tips For Starting A New School Year
Rhonda Greer, Chapel Hill Academy Principal
What are some things parents should be doing right now to get their children ready for school? What is the hardest part for students in adjusting back into their school routine?
These are just some of the questions families face as the new school year dawns.
Rhonda Greer, principal of Chapel Hill Academy, offers the following:
1. Be supportive! Allow the child to talk about what they may be worried about
before the first day of school. Many younger children may worry about the routine of school. For example: when is lunch, recess, where is the potty? Assure them that the teacher will explain these things to them, and they will be fine.
2. If the family schedule has allowed the child to stay up later in the summer time, you need to begin adjusting their bed time. All children need a good night's rest; whether they are starting Kindergarten or High School. Getting up in the mornings can be a real family struggle in the beginning!
3. Get Organized! Make sure you have backpacks, school supplies, and other items ready to go. This will help the child feel more in control of the new routine.
4. Encourage the child to eat breakfast. This is the most important meal of the day, and skipping breakfast will not give them the energy needed for their day. Also, allow for enough time so the child doesn't feel rushed!
5. Make sure the child understands how they will get home! Are you picking them up, riding the bus, or is the car pool going to come get them. Walk them through the routine of before school and after school. This will build self-confidence and they will know your expectations of them.
6. If you are sending their lunch with them, add a kind note or picture of the family pet. This will guarantee a smile, plus give the child a conversational piece with peers. This is also a great ice breaker for children who are starting a new school, and do not have a friendship base.
7. Don't hang around! When parents peer through windows or hang around the classroom, it may cause more stress for the child. Say good-bye, give kisses, and then leave the school.
8. The older student: Make sure they are organized with books, materials and lunch money. Before school begins be sure they review the school code of conduct.
9. When your child is transitioning to secondary school, and may be nervous about changing classes for the first time, here are some helpful hints:
• When they received their schedule, walk through the schedule several times until they feel comfortable.
• Help set up their locker.
• Purchase all needed school supplies
10. If you feel comfortable, they will feel comfortable!
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