Back to school time
HEALTH
By Shannon Morell to use when talking to kids about how I was honored to serve my country they feel about the first day of school. by joining the Navy. I met my Marine Talk about changes and transihusband while participating in Opera- tion: Find out when the first day of tion Enduring Freedom in 2001 and school will start and begin informing we were fortunate to form a family to- your child a few weeks before. You may gether. As a miliwant to show your tary spouse and child the school’s mom, I have expewebsite or the inrienced firsthand formation that is how important it posted about the Strengthening is for my family to new grade level. the Home Base be unified and reBe sure to give sourceful. I underadequate time to stand the imporhelp prepare your tance of keeping child for the tranour military families strong and sup- sition. porting both the service member and Develop predictable routines: Pretheir partner as they guide their kids pare kids for the transition from the through childhood. less structured routine of summer I was excited to join FOCUS in their to the more structured school efforts to strengthen military fami- schedule. For many, the change lies. As a FOCUS Resiliency Trainer, I in habits and routines can be worked with many wonderful educa- difficult without preparation. The Aquatic Therapy tors at various schools, child develop- Talking to your children Program is FREE for our ment centers, and youth and teen cen- about the changes and givters, who have explained to me some of ing them a few choices in Military and $10 for their the common challenges military kids the new routine can help face in schools. I am happy to share generate excitement about Family members and some of my favorite strategies to help the upcoming year. While Caregivers involved you and your kids start the school year some things, such as the right. time they need to arrive in their recovery. at school, are not negoPlease contact us tiable, they can choose Tips from teachers other things such as the Discuss feelings and expectations: It today to learn more. may be helpful to talk to children color of their backpack about expectations for both school and or what type of sandhome. Giving children the language wich they would like for and ability to share their feelings can lunch. Encourage indepenhelp relieve any concerns they might have about going back to school. The dence: Your child is comFeeling Thermometer is a great tool ing from summer break to a classroom of 25 or more students. In the classroom, it HEALTH is impossible for teachers to help every child with their jackets or book bags. By learning to manage these things children begin to develop a sense of competence and independence. You can work with your child in advance to practice these things, like how to load and unload their backpack. Orthodontics by Dr. Russell Toppi Develop problem-solving Board-Certified Orthodontist with 20 years experience. skills: Small disagreements are comGeneral Practice Residency at VA Hospital San Diego mon among friends and classmates. 3737 Moraga Ave., #B-109 San Diego, CA 92117 Whether on the playground or in the (858) 270-2343 • www.toppiorthodontics.com classroom, older children may have to "Thank you for your service." resolve conflicts on their own. Teach your children simple problem solving techniques, such as coming up with several possible solutions. Taking deep breaths and practicing speaking in a clear, calm manner are also useful tools Help create a family...Become a super surrogate!
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for settling conflicts. Establish goals: Helping children establish their own goals for the school year can set them up for success. For instance, you can talk to your child about their goals and help them develop simple and specific strategies to reach them. Having goals helps kids feel prepared, but not overwhelmed. Write down the goals and discuss the steps for achieving those goals. Two weeks before school begins, review the goals with the child during a family meeting. Knowing your children’s goals increases your awareness of their needs, and it increases your ability to support their independence.
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8 September 1, 2013 THE MILITARY PRESS
Saygoodbye to summer vacation can be hard for children. The thought of changing routines and adjusting to the demands of school can be challenging for kids of all ages. Using these tips can help prepare you and your student to have a successful start to the school year! ing
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