Children thrive when there are rules and boundaries and by setting up rules we
begin a desired pattern of behavior that will affect them for the rest of their
lives. If you get your children involved in the planning process as well as the
chores your child will look forward to their participation and every school day
will be less stressful for you all. In my experience, I've found the following
tips to be the most useful in our family during the school year:
♦Set a bed time schedule and stick to it. For example, bath at 7PM, reading at
7:30PM, lights out at 8PM. This not only gives parents some time to wind down
but you will have a child who is less crabby and more attentive at school. The
best perk is your child will expect it once it becomes routine and fall asleep
almost on cue.
♦Establish a "School Center" where all school work or activity boards are posted.
Set-up boxes or crates for each child to place their backpack or books into to
keep organized. Let your children choose the location or colors and styles of
boxes.
♦Make and review lists of things to do or items to follow up on. Use a planner or
calendar. List chores so your children know exactly what they need to accomplish
each day. Let you children help plan their chores.
♦Check the weather each evening and be aware of your child's activities to help
plan clothing or supply needs.
♦Lay out a complete set of clothes for all your children, including socks and
undergarments. Let your kids help pick out their clothes. Set shoes and coats
out for the next morning too.
♦Pre-plan a quick, healthy breakfast and lunches to save valuable time. You or
your children can set up the breakfast table, including dishes, glasses,
silverware and non-perishables. Make juice the night before. Pack lunches the
night before and freeze juice boxes if necessary to help keep lunches cold.
Including an occassional fun note or sticker in each lunch box is a nice
surprise for your child.
♦Have a specific "Homework Time" and be available for your child to ask questions
if they need help. Ask about homework daily and review it before bedtime to
ensure it's done. Be sure your child places all assignments, books and backpacks
in their designated boxes before bedtime so in the morning they can "grab &
go".Reinforce this behavior with an end of the week ice cream treat or something
similar.
♦Run errands after work or as soon as possible to keep your "to do" list under
control. Plan your errands so you spend as little time as possible driving. Plan
or map out your route if needed.
♦Keep keys in a designated spot and keep gas in your car. Fill up the gas tank
the night before to avoid unnecessary stops in the morning. You or the kids
don't want to be late for school.
♦Most of all, enjoy your children and remember to keep smiling.
About the Author
Yvonne Thompson owns and operates Assistance For You, a Virtual Assistant Support Service and the popular Letters From Santa web site, which creates holiday joy by mailing personalized Santa Letters to children. For more information visit the web site at
sendasantaletter.com or send an email to
Yvonne@Assistance-For-You.com
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