As a teacher, the beginning of a new school year [1] is always exciting. We have to organise materials, get the classroom ready, and finalize lesson plans. But just as teachers have to prep for going back to school [2], so do the parents. And I'm talking beyond checking everything off that school supply list [3].
As the most important people in the educational life of a child, parents do more than just drop their kids off at the beginning of the day and pick them up when it's all over. Parents help set the learning tone for the whole year, and without their support [4], everything cam go south. Keep reading for 11 things you can do ahead of time to make sure you, your child, and their teacher have the most successful and efficient school year yet.
Have All Their Supplies Ready
If the classroom supply list asks for students to have a three-ring binder and flashcards, don't wait until after school starts to get those things. It will be one fewer thing on your plate and help teach your child about being prepared and following instructions.
Read All the Back-to-School Info Beforehand
Parent manuals, letters home, calendars, and welcome packets are given out for you to read for a reason. They contain vital information so you can go about the school year informed and know what's in store for your child.
Go to an Open House or Take a Tour
Seeing the school and classroom is so important, especially for the younger grades. It will give everyone an opportunity to meet teachers, get a feel for the layout, and be more comfortable on the first day.
Set Goals For the Year
Setting goals is such a helpful thing for children to learn early on. Help them create manageable education, behaviour, and social goals to practice throughout the year. As a bonus, this will give you something to talk to them about as the school year progresses.
Talk With Your Child About the Rules
In your parent's manual should be a list of rules. Beyond reading it yourself, share the school rules that you think might be an issue with your child. This will ensure a safe and informed school year.
Get Your Children Excited
Do what you can to talk school up. Remind them of the exciting things they're going to learn, the games they'll get to play, and the people they'll get to see. An excited child is likely an engaged student.
Let Them Know the Teacher Is There to Help
If your child needs help navigating the school world, let them know that the teacher is there to be a support system. They should know to trust the teacher but also listen to the teacher's directions. Just because the teacher isn't their parent doesn't mean the teacher doesn't deserve respect.
Complete Any Summer Assignments
Long before the first school bell rings, those dreaded Summer assignments should be completed. It isn't fun for anyone when your child arrives for their first day and hasn't done the work they had months to do.
Organise Backpack and Books Together
It doesn't matter how old your child is, they're going to need to organise their backpack. With young children, show them everything that's going into it, while older children can take the time to set things up themselves.
Give Children a Quiet Place at Home Dedicated to Schoolwork
With homework starting in kindergarten [6] and preschool, children should have a dedicated space at home to get work done. Ideally a comfortable place to work that's away from the TV, kids need a desk or counter they know is for homework.
Make a Calendar With Them
Take the calendar that was given to you in your welcome packet and fill out the family calendar with your kids so they're aware of important dates. They should be aware of how to schedule their days, and it will give them something to look forward to.