I love the crisp notebooks and brand new, no-colors-missing boxes of colored pencils of the new school year. However, what I enjoy more than anything else is the feeling that this year is another chance for each child to start fresh — with a new teacher, additional friends and another opportunity to show herself that this will be the best year yet!
There are many ways to help your child have a successful year, but one of the most important is to consistently role model the 'tools' of success. You are one of your child's most important and best teachers. Therefore, you play a critical role in helping your child have a truly successful school year.
By taking the following suggestions to heart, I’m confident you will help your entire family have a successful year — let me know next summer!
Be on time
Teachers request timeliness, but when parents regularly run late, it reinforces that this is okay. In fact, it sends the message that another person’s time (the one waiting for you) isn’t as important as your own. So teach your child to be on time by living this way.
Show effort
Of course, you tell your child to work her hardest, but do you do so yourself? Whether you are completing a work project or cooking a meal, take pride in your own work because it is important to feel good about what you have produced, and know that other people will appreciate your effort as well. Your efforts won’t go unnoticed by your child.
Plan ahead
The school year includes the completion of long-term assignments, each of which requires careful planning. Life has many of these long term 'assignments' too. When planning vacations, work projects, home renovations or other big ventures, discuss these with your child, helping him see the importance of advance planning.
Compromise with friends and family
Kids learn many of their social skills by observing you. Therefore, when you are flexible, compromise frequently, and reduce bickering and fighting to a minimum, your child will do the same!
Be polite
You may be frustrated because of a long line at the supermarket, or when a telephone operator is rude, but your child focuses only on your behavior. She will mimic your words and intonations in the classroom or on the playground. Thus, be aware of how you speak to people — no matter how aggravated you may feel inside!
Listen
Paying attention is one of school’s — and life’s — most important skills. So put down your phone, turn off the TV and really listen to your kids, your partner and anyone that is talking to you. Not only is it a good way to teach your child, but it will improve the quality of your life as well.
Organize your workspace
Kids need an orderly space to do their homework and so do parents! If you keep your space organized, your child will be more likely to keep his space tidy too.
Be open minded and curious
Approach every situation and person with as little prejudgment, negativity and ambivalence as you can muster. Be enthusiastic and optimistic whenever possible. Fake it if you must! These are important life skills to role model for your child.
Read!
Parents who read are more likely to raise children who read. In addition, read to younger kids. Children who read will have better reading comprehension and overall better success in school.
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