The new school year is in full swing and we can imagine you must have been filled with anxiety and trepidation leading up to it. And now that they’re off, do you worry about your child’s performance and achievements this year? Not to fear; you are not alone as most parents dread this time of year. Notwithstanding the apprehension, what can you do to inject excitement and positivity in your child to make this the best year for them and for yourself….academically and otherwise?
Despite what your kids may tell you and regardless of their age, your kids need your attention, help and guidance. Your support is critical and central to their academic achievement whether you understand the various subjects or not. You can make a big difference in their lives through conscious intention.
Here are three key points to consider when creating a transformation this school year:
1. Effective communication improves your relationship with your children and is sure to be beneficial at school. Show daily interest in their lives. Ask your child every day about their time at school.
2. Be sure that your children know that you have high aspirations for them to do better this school year. I am not suggesting piling on the pressure or guilt tripping. Rather, make it clear that you believe in them and in their ability to succeed.
3. Maintaining balance between academic and non-academic activities is not just important. It’s mandatory. But while extra- curricular activities whether sporting or non-sporting, offer many benefits to children, do not over-schedule. Your child must have time for recreation, relaxation as well as the freedom to do absolutely nothing at all from time to time.
Yes, we know, these are all easier said than done. So here are some other pointers to help you achieve these things:
Establishing Routine – Students who have structure in their home life generally perform better in school. Kids should have a general idea how their day will run. Let them get up at the same time every morning. Establish a bedtime ritual that includes time for reading.
Prepare for School – Organise school bags the night before. This helps to ensure that the mornings begin on a good note with less chaos. Have bags packed with all the essentials and make sure homework is done and packed the night before.
Goal Setting – Before school begins or shortly after, it would be great if you could sit with your child and devise specific goals to be accomplished over the school year. So devise a workable plan for goal attainment