Parenting in the School Years

Routines

• The website HealthyChildren.org, a resource of the American Academy of Pediatrics, states that children appreciate the organization that comes with a regular daily schedule, and the security that enables them to anticipate their daily routine. Parents can establish a routine several weeks before school begins, and continue to follow it as children begin the school year. Children need a daily healthy breakfast to achieve a high success rate while learning, and a regular bedtime ensures that they will get enough sleep. Older children from middle school onward can make a habit of writing down important events such as games, upcoming assignments and other information relating to school. Parents can also prioritize time in the evenings so that they can discuss the day's events with their children.

Communication

• Healthy Children suggests that parents talk often with their school-age children, and that they set aside a time every day to discuss their child's likes and dislikes as well as the events of the day. Parents can emphasize the positive things that go along with attending school. Seeing old friends, making new friends and involvement in extracurricular activities may help children look forward to school. Communication is also important between families and teachers. When parents show interest in what a child is doing at school, or what they can do to help the child be successful, they are building a positive relationship with their child's educator.

Homework

• Homework helps children learn to work independently and shows parents what their child is learning in school. A child is more likely to complete her assignments when parents monitor her work and check it when she is finished. Establishing a quiet, organized area for a child to work increases concentration. Homework encourages responsibility and communication between parents and teachers, and students who complete homework on a regular basis tend to achieve higher grades and test scores. The Texas Cooperative Extension suggests that parents can monitor television and video games on school nights to help children focus on their assignments.

Getting Involved

• Being involved at a child's school is a great way to show students that parents take an interest in their education. Parent volunteers are essential for organizing fundraising and other activities. When parents show children that they are interested and available to help at school, they are emphasizing the importance of participating in a community. The Kids Health website suggests that parents participate in a Parent Teacher Association at their child's school. Parents can help out in the classroom, assist in chaperoning field trips or help with special needs children. Volunteering time may encourage their child, his classmates and the school community by giving students positive interactions and encouragement.