September is an exciting time for parents and children, but adjusting to the new school year can also be a little stressful. It may take a few weeks to figure out how you are going to make it all work. Here are five ways to start the school year off right and make the transition from vacation back to classroom a smooth one.
1. Connect with your child’s teachers.
Building a relationship with your child’s teacher can help you understand how your child is doing at school and how you can help your child best at home. Try to meet with the teacher for a few minutes as soon as the school year begins. Working as a team, this partnership can make the school year go more smoothly for you and your child.
2. Establish a consistent homework routine right from the start.
Having a consistent homework time each day is an important component with building study skills. Schedule a daily homework time for Kumon and for school in your family’s new routine. This not only establishes a homework “habit,” but helps a child understand that homework is a priority in your home. TIP: Getting up a little early and doing Kumon before school is effective for many students.
3. Set up a study area.
One easy way to make study time more effective is to create a distraction-free zone. Place portable technology such as smartphones or iPads away from the study area. Supplies such as pencils and erasers should be within arm’s reach. By establishing a structured study environment, you are enabling your child to study without distraction.
4. Limit screen time.
Over the summer break, children usually have more free time and that could mean more time watching TV, playing video games, and using the computer. The new school year offers an opportunity to initiate different habits such as limiting screen time to a certain amount of hours a day or week. This can free up time to spend on activities that involve communication, imagination, and exercise.
5. Be positive and deliver genuine praise.
Parents who have a positive attitude towards learning and school can excite children with their enthusiasm. Praising for accomplishments is just as important as praising for effort. When your child does his homework without a reminder and on his own, this is a great opportunity to acknowledge his independence.
Information provided by Kumon Math & Reading Center of Issaquah Highlands. For more information, please visit their website or call at 425-369-1072.
Past articles from Kumon:
Information provided by Kumon Math & Reading Center of Issaquah Highlands. For more information, please visit their website or call at 425-369-1072.
Past articles from Kumon:
- Kumon and the Common Core
- Reading Proficiency in Third Grade
- To Have and to Hold...A Pencil
- Motivation and Enjoyment
- Activities to Make Math Fun for Children
- Summer Learning Slide
- The Kumon Reading Program & the Common Core
- How Does the Kumon Method Affect A Student’s Future?
- Fostering Perseverance and Motivation in Your Child
- Summer Activities for Math
- Start Now; Make Back to School Transition Easier
- Why Is A Strong Foundation in the Basics Essential for Students?
- 3 Tops for Back-to-School Success
