September 2023

POP QUIZ TIME!

It’s that time of year again… school days, lunchboxes, homework, tests and pop quizzes!

Parents- this first quiz is for you. Let’s find out if you are prepared for the school year. Take this 5 -point quiz to find out if you will be at the top of the class this year!

Q1. Have you made contact yet with your child’s teacher?

A. This doesn’t have to be about a major issue. Instead, send a quick hello and a thank you for his/her effort in making the first month positive and fun! When you have already reached out, it makes it easier to address the bigger issues, if they arise through the year.

Q2. Do you have a routine for clearing out bookbags and

communication folders every single night?

A. This is such an important nightly routine to establish for your family. It is also critical that both you and your child are involved in this procedure. Your child needs to empty his/her bookbag and clear the papers that are meant to stay at home. The parents’ job is to review these papers with your child and complete the forms that need to be returned. This little habit will have huge payoff in helping your child feel organized for school the next day.

Q3. Have you planned for a flexible schedule and a designated spot

for your child to do homework?

A. The homework schedule needs to be flexible depending on the night, but there are some components that should be considered. For example, does your child like to complete homework right after school with a snack or do you have a child that needs time to unwind by playing outside awhile or by watching a favorite episode on TV? These kids might prefer to do homework after relaxing a bit. Teachers will tell you that whenever it is being completed, it should be in a quiet environment that allows children to focus and do their best work. Have your child choose an area where he/she feels comfortable working. Make sure it has good lighting, ample space to write and you are good to go!

Q4. Have you found a way to get involved with your child’s school this

year?

A. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment. Could you…

• attend 1-2 PTA meetings

• plan on attending a few school events with your child this year and don’t miss the big ones… Open House, Book Fairs, etc

• volunteer for at least 1 event or offer to help with a clerical task in your child’s classroom

• plan for Parent-Teacher conferences. Schedule those dates in ASAP

Q5. Do you have a positive attitude about school this year?

A. This might be the most important question of all because attitudes are more contagious than the flu! Your child is observing your subtle cues regarding his/her teacher and how the classroom is being run. If it’s not what you hoped it would be- be careful how much you burden your child with this worry. Plan to share your concerns with the teacher to get it resolved. Kids see their situation through your eyes and adopt the same attitude.