Getting Ready For Back To School - Part 2

In my previous article, I gave ideas on shopping and lunches. Now it's time to give some thought to helping your child get mentally prepared for school. On an ongoing basis, we have to keep a child interested in school.

Children, especially teenagers, are very fussy on what they wear. We don't always approve of the latest fads but we have to learn to give some leeway as long as it's within good taste. Being dressed like their classmates can boost a child's self esteem. It can help give him/her motivation to achieve.

We have to learn to give a lot of extra attention and coaching to help our children remain interested in school. If we don't have a positive outlook, it does have a negative impact. We may not realize how much our attitudes affect our children.

With older children, we can sit down and talk about expectations and goals for the upcoming year. It doesn't have to be a complicated game plan, it can only be one goal. For example, not being shy about asking for help in Math. This ties in with a discussion about fears or reservations your child may have. This is important when he/she is moving up to a different school. Maybe there are things you can do to help. For instance, if your child is starting high school and is very fearful, maybe you can put them in touch with a student who is already in high school. You may have a friend who has a high school student and could arrange an informal get together.

Throughout the year you can support your child in his/her studies, but don't hover or become the taskmaster. Children need to be encouraged and not pushed. Promote good study habits in a positive manner rather than nagging.

Take part in their studies by offering to help. Ask quiz questions before a test or exam. Listen to them practice a speech. Take a look at their projects and give them praise. Many times my children ask me to help them with their homework because they are not sure of the concept. I have to admit that Math is real challenge for me--sometimes I am unable to help them. I do write a note to the teacher and explain that I tried to help and was not successful. I find that teachers appreciate the parent feedback.

You can also try to stimulate your child's interest in school subjects. For example, if you know that your child is studying a foreign country, look up information on the internet so you are up to speed. Then you can have an impromptu discussion about the country. One time we talked about the schools in Japan in comparison to the school my child attends in Canada. It doesn't have to be a heavy political or social discussion, just something that your child can relate to.

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