The new school year has started, and maybe you're like me, and are already feeling overwhelmed. Plenty of other parents are still adjusting to the routine of a new school year, so it's okay to take a deep breath and regroup. Here are a few tips to help you stay focused on what really matters:
Serve a healthy
breakfast…+lunch, snack and dinner
It may sound old-fashioned, but even modern day experts say there’s
plenty of merit to making sure your child has a nutritious start to the day. Think about ways you can pack protein, whole
grains, healthy fats, and a serving of fruit into this important start to the
school day. When it comes to
after-school snacks, create a kid-accessible snack area of the refrigerator for
pre-washed, pre-portioned snacks like fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, and yogurt. A little prep time and you’ve got a week’s
worth of healthy snacks lined up and ready to grab on your way out the door! Avoid fast food at dinner time by planning your
meals in advance, including shopping and advance prep work whenever possible.
And don’t forget your slow-cooker--it’s a real life saver for busy families.
Support your child’s teacher
Start off on the right foot when it comes to connecting with your child’s
teacher. Teachers are professionals whose
education and experience makes them uniquely qualified to provide children with
the instruction, care, and encouragement they need to master academic and life
skills. Show your respect by scheduling
appointments rather than “dropping in” for impromptu conferences. Be sure to go over your child’s homework and
assignments and help out on projects when your assistance is needed. Let your child’s teacher know you value and
appreciate what is truly a labor of love on his or her part and you’ll be
rewarded with a partnership that helps your child thrive in the classroom.
Be positive
When talking about school, your child’s teacher or your child’s
performance in school, try to be as positive as possible. Children are great imitators and your
enthusiasm will be contagious. Cheer
them on as they tackle new skills and all of the exciting “firsts” a new year
brings. Your positive attitude and
loving support will go a long way to helping them overcome any anxieties they
may be feeling about learning new things or making new friends.
Read nightly with your child
It’s not complicated, and it doesn’t take more than 15 minutes a day,
but this simple step could have a huge affect on your child’s success in
school. Studies show that parents who
read with their children, boost overall aptitude for learning, improve
inter-personal skills, increase attention-span and discipline…the list goes
on. Make reading a part of your daily
routine and you’ll reap the rewards throughout your child’s school career.
Keep to a strict bedtime
After winding down with a good book, it’s off to bed! Keeping to bedtimes is important for all
members of the family, especially young children whose brains and bodies use this
downtime to re-group, repair and grow.
The National Sleep Foundation recommends 11-13 total hours of daily
sleep (including naps) for 3-5 year-olds.
