What are some tricks that will help us ensure that our children are ready to go back to school? For Readiness
Answer: Suddenly, summer is just about over, and it's back-to-school time once more. Have you resolved the big issues that caused problems last year? Now is the time to settle them so this school year will be a good experience for everyone. Don't wait until the night before school begins to talk about how your family will handle: homework, bedtime, the morning routine, after-school activities and daily chores.
One other very important issue is determining who is responsible for seeing that certain things get done. All too often, parents take on more responsibility than is necessary - robbing their children of the chance to learn how to accept responsibility. Children should not have to be reminded several times every day that it is homework time, bedtime or time to leave for school. Nor should parents have to run to school with forgotten items, from homework to lunches to gym clothes. Some children easily take responsibility for getting these school tasks done. Many need help in becoming more responsible. Here are some suggestions:
1. Don't expect a child who has never taken much responsibility to suddenly become responsible for too many routine school tasks. Go slowly, giving the child responsibility in one or two areas at a time.
2. Post reminder lists in prominent places. A reminder on the exit door saying lunch, homework, keys or whatever is habitually forgotten can be helpful.
3. Have your children get their backpacks filled with all the requisite school materials the night before and place them by the exit door. Again, lists can be used to determine no essential item is forgotten.
4. Give your children alarm clocks so they can take responsibility for getting up on time as soon as they can set a clock.
5. Finally, a master checklist can be used to show how well your children are handling their responsibilities. Weekly rewards can even be given for doing a good job.