August 24, 2009 – A moan can be heard from children across the valley (although the cheer from the parents may be muffling the sound). It is back to school time. As much as they may want to deny it, summer vacation is officially over and another school year has begun. The kids may think that the day is stressful but for all those parents preparing their kids for school we know you have it a bit harder.
To try and help alleviate your stress a bit, we would like to offer you these helpful hints:
Making the First Day Easier
- Remind your child that she is not the only student who is a bit uneasy about the first day of school. Teachers know that students are anxious and will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible.
- Point out the positive aspects of starting school: It will be fun. You’ll see old friends and meet new ones.
- If you feel it is appropriate, drive your child (or walk with her) to school and pick her up on the first day.
Backpack Safety
- Pack light – a backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of the student’s body weight. (Where was this helpful hint when I was in college? My Shakespeare book definitely felt like it weighed 10 percent of my body weight. I still have nightmares about lugging that thing around).
- Organize the pack to make use of all compartments and pack heavier items closest to the center of the back.
- Choose a pack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.
Travel to and from School
It’s estimated that 24 million students nationwide start their school day with a trip on the school bus. Whether they walk, ride the bus or travel by car, teach your kids these few tips to ensure they get to and from school safely.
Tips for School Bus Riders
- Do not play in the street while waiting for the bus
- Carry all loose belongings in a bag or backpack and never reach under the school bus to get anything that has rolled or fallen beneath it. .
- Move immediately onto the sidewalk and out of traffic after getting off the bus.
Tips for Pedestrians or Bike Riders
- Never walk alone – always travel with a buddy. Try and find a friend, or make a new friend in the neighborhood to walk to school or ride the bus with.
- Respect traffic lights and street signs.
- Always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
- Avoid loose fitting clothing that could get caught in spokes or pedals.
Tips for Car Drivers and Passengers
- Make sure young children are in safety seats at all times, and that the seats have been properly installed.
- All children under 13 years should ride in the rear seat of vehicles.
- Remember that many crashes occur while novice teen drivers are going to and from school. You may want to limit the number of teen passengers to prevent driver distraction. Do not allow your teen to drive while eating, drinking, or talking on a cell phone.
Developing Good Homework and Study Habits
- Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework. Youngsters need a permanent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that offers privacy.
- Set aside ample time for homework.
- Establish a household rule that the TV set stays off during homework time.
- Supervise computer and internet use.
- Be available to answer questions and offer assistance, but never do a child’s homework for her.
Some Inspirational Quotes
The best teachers teach from the heart, not from the book. ~Author Unknown
You learn something every day if you pay attention. – Ray LeBlond
The larger the island of knowledge, the longer the shoreline of wonder. – Ralph W. Stockman
An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest. – Benjamin Franklin
The whole of life, from the moment you are born to the moment you die, is a learning process. – Jiddu Krishnamurti
Education’s purpose is to replace an empty mind with an open one. – Malcolm S. Forbes
We wish all the students and parents the best of luck as you set off on this new adventure.