Christine Scanlan

Check out these great tips!

Whether your child is a first-timer or a seasoned pro, back-to-school time can be stressful for families. In my work with educators in Summit County, I have witnessed how parental involvement and influence helps children succeed in school. Here are some ways you can help your child succeed this school year:

1. Homework haven

Help your child develop good homework and study habits by creating an area that is consistently used for doing homework. Set aside a regular time that is strictly for doing school work, far away from the television! If you don’t have a place at home free from distractions, become a regular at your nearest library.

2. Shut-eye

Make sure your child gets plenty of sleep. Research shows that kids who get enough sleep (10-11 hours for kids ages 5-12) are more successful in school. Re-establish a permanent bedtime if you became lax over the summer.

3. Brain food

Make sure your child eats a good breakfast and packs a nutritious lunch. Make lunches the night before, and use this time to talk about healthy foods. Younger children, in particular, need to adapt to new meal routines before the school day demands it of them.

4. Set a good example

Show your child how much you like reading, or talk about math and measuring when you’re making a recipe together. Read aloud to each other instead of watching television. Talk about the book each of you are reading, and show genuine enthusiasm for their comments. Remember that children can learn anywhere, anytime.

5. Talk to each other

Talk to your kids as much as you can about what they are learning in school. They may say they don’t like it, but it shows your child that you value their education. On a car ride home or on a family walk, take the time to show interest in their learning. You will soon find out what interests them most, and then encourage them to explore those subjects.

6. Organize

Ease back-to-school anxiety by being prepared. Help your child to lay out her clothes and pack her backpack the night before. Keep calendars with important dates in a place where everyone in the family can see.

7. Get your child involved

Encourage your child to register for fun and educational extracurricular programs. Find out if your school or community offers an after-school activity that would interest your child. From pottery and art classes to reading clubs and soccer practices, there are many opportunities for your child.

8. Get yourself involved

Evidence suggests that students’ success stems in part from their families’ involvement in their school. When parents and teachers are in touch, children are more likely to do well in school. And when parents are heavily involved with schools, children’s academic performance vastly improves. Involve yourself in the academic community: Volunteer, join the PTA and stay in touch with your child’s teacher.

9. Be flexible

Be flexible in the first weeks back. School can be a long day for a young person, and getting back into routine after a long summer break can be exhausting.

10. Get help

Offer your help if your child is struggling, but don’t do all the work for them. Tutors can be a good alternative.

Happy Learning!