Blog - Parent Resources
It's the beginning of the school year...
September 06, 2024
Let’s talk about....
It’s the beginning of a new school year—the perfect time to set the stage for learning success. Try these simple strategies with your child:
• Get a head start. Many families find that organizing at night prevents morning “rush hour.” You can review school papers, pack and refrigerate lunches, set backpacks by the door and agree on outfits.
• Establish sleep routines. Choose a reasonable bedtime so your child is rested when it’s time to wake up. Elementary schoolers need between 9 and 12 hours of sleep daily. Middle and High School Students need between 8 and 10 hours of sleep daily. Try to stick to the bedtime on weekends, too.
• Develop morning habits. When children do the same things in the same order each morning, it’s less likely that they will forget a step.
• Choose a work time. Establish a time when your child will have the most energy and motivation to do assignments. Create a quiet study spot, complete with necessary supplies. Your child should work at the same time each day.
• Set priorities. Schedule things like schoolwork, sports, lessons and most importantly family time.
• Believe in your child and their God given abilities. Praise them for effort and approach.
• Offer support when your child stumbles. Remind your student that failure happens to everyone and mistakes help people grow. Be your child’s “safe place,” and provide constant love and acceptance.
• Empower your child to believe in themselves and Jesus Christ.
"Stand true to what you believe. Be courageous. Be strong". 1 Corinthians 16:13b
Let’s talk about....
Independence. We all need to be praised and encouraged as we journey on our walk of life.
Do you encourage your child to work independently?
“Mom, I can’t do it. I need help!” Every child makes that plea once in a while. But if you hear it every day, you may need to help your child become more independent.
Answer yes or no to the questions below to find out if you are fostering self-reliance: ___1. Do you tell your child, “I believe in you and know you can do it.”
___2. Do you help your child break big projects down into smaller pieces that are easier to finish?
___3. Do you remind your child of the importance of persistence? “You couldn’t ride a bike the first time you tried. But you kept at it. Is there another strategy you could try?”
___4. Do you ask questions when your child gets stuck? “What did you learn when you read the chapter?”
___5. Do you offer praise when your child finishes work without assistance?
How well are you doing? If most of your answers are yes, you are helping your child learn how to work independently. For no answers, try those ideas.