Posted by Akilah Richards on Sep.01, 2008

The lazy days of summer are gone. Crops are in and the fall is just beginning. With children once again off to a new and busy school year, parents will need to take extra steps to make sure that they stay well connected to their children during the school year. Here are a few ideas to help you and your children prepare for the school year.

Make the time

Allow your children to be part of your day instead of at the end of a long and hectic day. This will let them know how very important they are to you. Make this time a break from technology… no phone calls, TV, computer, or video games! Frequently, I call for a “Technology Break.” At first, this may be met with moaning, but they will eventually see that they have your undivided attention and come to enjoy it. Children will also be more open to speaking with you about things that come up. Trust me, you’ll learn a lot! Most importantly, you will be able to guide them and become a more effective parent. This may be hard if you’re a working parent, but a quick call, or a few minutes in the morning of one on one is all you need to stay connected.

Set the tone for the day

Start off the day calm and focused with a light breakfast and a glass of fresh juice. Talk to your child about the day ahead. If your child is old enough for an alarm clock, purchase a radio alarm clock and set to a classical station for a calm wake up call.

Have the last word

Spend the last 30 minutes of the day reading and talking to your child. This can also be cuddle time for little ones or a last minute homework check for older children. Most of all, the last 30 minutes of the day can be a wonderful way to show them how much they are loved. It is tough growing up… but it is much easier if you know there is someone on your side who thinks you’re the best!

Plan ahead for smooth transitions

Crazy, hectic mornings looking for a missing shoe or folder on an empty stomach is no way to start off a productive day in school. Have everyone help prepare the night before. Each child should have a special place for their school belongings. A small spot, cubby or bin will do. Also, have the children lay out their clothes for the next day, this will avoid wasting time in the morning looking for the perfect outfit.

Ask for input for lunch

What would your child like to eat for lunch? Chances are that if they help you plan the lunch menus,

the lunches will be eaten. Don’t think they are eating if no lunch comes home, most children at school throw out what they don’t eat. Keep this in mind and don’t over pack, go for the sure meals that will be eaten without your supervision.

Have everyone pitch in

Being a family means working as a family! Have everyone participate in the responsibility of keeping a house running smoothly. That means, picking up after themselves, keeping their rooms in order, helping with meals, children watching over each other, and being responsible. Too often, I run out of the house to make a lesson and were missing a towel for swimming or a tennis racket or ballet slippers… you get the idea, have the children take responsibility if they want to continue with these activities.

Bottom line: staying connected with your children is easy with just a little effort. Families with parents who keep the communication lines open can more effectively parent. Children will also be more open to speaking with you about things that come up. Trust me, you’ll learn a lot! Most importantly, you will be able to guide them through childhood’s twists and turns.

Have a wonderful school year!

Share

Posted under Family, GDM Kids, Tweens, Teens.