5 Things I’ll Be Telling My Kids As They Start The New School Year
I cannot believe we are already at the start of another school year, yet here it is. A new school year is like a blank page waiting to be written on. You can help your child start a beautiful new chapter this year.
In the midst of the back-to-school chaos, here are five things I’ll be reminding my kids.
1. Stay organized
Think back to last academic year and which place in the house worked best to study and do homework. Stick to what worked and make sure that area is organized. Speaking of organization, at school, make sure your desk, backpack, folders, and locker stay tidy. Know where everything is. If you need labels, use them. The same is true of the computer— do not let that desktop get messy. Name files in a way that makes sense.
Do whatever you need to figure out the perfect organizational structure within the first few weeks of school. Once you have this down, you’ll feel empowered and it should reduce stress. Organizing allows you to stay on top of assignments.
2. Set goals
Setting goals at the beginning of the school year can be a powerful way to stay motivated. Think about what you want to achieve this year. Maybe you want to improve your grades, make new friends, or try out for a school club or sports team. Write down your goals and keep them somewhere you can see them every day. Big goals are great, but small ones are just as special and might be things you check in on every day or weekly.
3. Be open to new friendships
School isn’t just about learning from books; it’s also about building relationships. Be open to making new friends and include others in your activities like recess. If someone doesn’t have a friend, invite them in. There is simply not enough kindness in this world so spread it however and whenever possible.
4. Have patience with yourself and your teachers
Each start of school brings about some changes to the previously known routine. It takes time to figure out routines, and everyone is in the same boat because everyone has been on summer break. Be patient with yourself, other students, and teachers. Teachers need time to acclimate as well, so go easy on them. If you feel nervous, keep in mind that most others in the classroom are feeling the same way — maybe more, maybe less. You may not be able to tell, but it is okay!
5. Don’t worry about being perfect
Just put forth your best effort. If you have questions, ask for help. If you’ve listened, engaged in class, and submit the required assignments, then you are certainly on the right track! When you stop worrying about perfection, you’ll also have more fun.
Starting the school year off on the right foot can set the tone for success, not just academically, but also socially and emotionally. I hope this back to school period brings excitement and fun firsts for your kids.
