As children start back to primary and elementary school, they may be wondering what lies ahead. Many parents have questions, too. Here are some ideas to ease children’s return to their classrooms, and to help keep the positive vibe going all year long.
1. Plan for the basics. Make sure your child has what they need for school success: the necessary supplies, a quiet place for homework, good sleep habits, ample physical exercise, and nourishing food.
2. Listen and be observant. Know what’s happening in your child’s life at home and at school. Listen carefully to their worries and concerns. Think about the highs, lows, and rollercoasters of previous years, and how they might have an impact this year.
3. Nurture creativity. Foster your child’s curiosity. Encourage their imagination, support their critical thinking skills, and invite their creative expression across different areas of interest.
4. Be reassuring. Provide the reassurance your child needs as the school year begins, as they encounter different academic challenges, and as they make new friends. Help your child learn to trust that they can work their way through tough times. (With your support, if required.)
5. Make real-world connections. Your child will be more engaged in learning if they see the relevance of activities, tasks, and whatever else is being asked of them—that is, why it matters—for them, and others.
Authors’ Note:
This BLOG is an updated version of one we previously shared online at Psychology Today. We also address all these ideas in greater detail in our book Beyond Intelligence, Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids.
Dr. Dona Matthews’ articles are accessible on her website HERE, alongside information about her work, and her books.
Dr. Joanne Foster invites you to visit her BLOG page and RESOURCES page for many pieces relating to learning and development, and more. To acquire information about her books, visit the BOOKS page on her website.
