Baton Rouge Parents Magazine

The first weeks of school are usually a time of change and stress for families. Children are faced with unfamiliar subjects and lessons and the expectations of a new teacher. Friends may find themselves in separate classrooms, as new students are introduced to the classroom mix. Some children will attend a new school entirely, often one in which they are the youngest students. Parents suffer these changes alongside their children as everyone tries to adjust to routines.

The keys to a successful school year are planning and organization during the early weeks. Your actions now can ease the back-to-school transition, lay the groundwork for a successful academic year and pay benefits all year.

1 Attend “Back-to-School Night.”

Usually held during the first weeks of school, these events allow parents to visit classrooms, meet teachers and learn about the educational activities planned for the year. If your child’s school offers such an event, be sure to attend.

2 Request a parent-teacher conference.

This is an excellent opportunity to meet one-on-one with the teacher, learn more about her expectations and share information about your child: perhaps he pays better attention when seated in the front row or needs encouragement to speak in front of the class. The sooner the teacher is aware of these things, the sooner she can make necessary adjustments to help your child.
 

3 Be a partner in education.

Make sure your child and his teacher know you want to be involved in the educational process. Volunteer and/or visit at school if possible. Even a few hours will offer insight into your child’s experience. The best outcomes result from partnerships between home, student and school.

4 Establish a routine for homework.

Schedule homework for a time of day with the least distraction. Establishing a time and quiet place for homework, well in advance of bedtime, will make for an easier transition. Follow up if she needs reminders or assistance.

5 Establish a system to process school forms.

Place a box or basket in an easy-to-reach location for your children to place school forms requiring your attention as soon as they arrive home. Attend to these forms promptly, and return the ones that require your signature.

6 Start your morning routine the night before.

Preparation is especially important the first few weeks of school, when getting out of the house on time is most often a challenge. Before bedtime, make lunches or provide lunch money; have children put books, homework and required forms in backpacks; and set out clothes for the morning. Make sure everyone gets enough sleep and plan a simple breakfast.

7 Be flexible and understanding.

Accept that this is a time of adjustment and that some snags are inevitable. A sense of humor and lots of hugs will help you and your children adjust more quickly.

Your family can enjoy a smooth transition to the new school year. Start now by following these steps and you and your children will soon be on your way to a successful school year.