Getting Ready for School...During the Summer!

While school may be the last thing on your mind over the summer months, it's extremely important to use the time off to effectively plan for the coming year! Putting strategies and routines in place before school starts sets the stage for success early on. Here are some tips from Karen Sampson to help your child succeed during the 2008-2009 school year.

1. Get to know your child's teacher, school counselor, or principal
It's amazing what a few pre-school emails can do when help and support is really needed during the school year.

2. Attend any orientations that your school might have
Whether it be new school, new grade, or just a back to school orientation, check in with the academic professionals in your child's life. Putting a "face with a name," creates a much more personal connection with them, even if you chat for just a short time.

3. Talk with your child about expectations
Make your expectations for school behavior clear before school starts. Your child will know what consequences will result should s/he act out. If grades are important to you or your child, also discuss the difference between "good" grades and "bad" grades. If this is part of your back-to-school conversation though, be sure to talk about "trying your best" so that your child realizes effort is more important than outcome.

4.Role-play new situations with your child
Even if students are just starting a new grade in their old school, there are a multitude of situations that may arise. Have your child practice what to do if they get lost, how to deal with bullies, or make new friends. If age appropriate, have your child practice "saying no" to drugs. Research shows the best way to prevent drug use is to prepare students to resist peer pressure!

5. Offer family rewards for success in school
Instead of money or bonuses, offer a family dinner out at a restaurant or 15-minutes extra of bed-time reading. These rewards will be much more meaningful to students in the long run and will provide more time together as a family. Everyone wins!