Lisa Pawlak
to
w o H ur Child l o o Y o h p c l S e H ive in r h T
If you’re feeling nostalgic for the carefree bliss of summer, you’re not alone.
Many parents find that back-to-school season is a shock to the system. From waking up early and packing healthy lunches, to coordinating afterschool activities and evening homework sessions, this time of year is all about adjusting to new routines. “We try to spend the week before school starts getting into school mode — going back to earlier bedtimes and waking up on schedule. I also plan school lunches and prepare breakfast items the kids can just warm up each morning,” says Anastacia Grenda, local mother of two. September is an ideal month to explore ways to support your child (and his teacher) at school during the upcoming academic year. When parents are involved with their child’s education, they can positively impact everything from academic performance and social relationships, to overall health and future career possibilities. Here’s how to get involved and help your child thrive at school.
Kindergarten to Second Grade During these early years of schooling — and all the way until high school graduation — one of the most important things you can do is to talk with your child (daily) about school. Ask what he learned, what made him laugh, how he performed on a math or spelling test, what he enjoyed, and what he didn’t. These everyday conversations send the message that your child’s life at school — and how he performs academically — matters. Some kids share such information freely, but others are more private or reluctant. If your child is the latter, try playing a game like Rose and Thorn, where each person shares the nicest thing about his day (a “rose”), along with an unpleasant or difficult aspect (a “thorn”). Family dinners are a great time to play — encourage everyone to participate. “We try to eat together every evening,” says Kay McKenzie, mother of twins and elementary school instructional aid in North County. “We ask about school and sometimes the kids will share about classroom stuff. Other times, about friends or teachers.” Another great way to support your child at school is to read with him daily. Older siblings and grandparents can help. Many families include reading as part of the bedtime routine. Visit the library regularly for fresh reading material. Young kids love having their parents volunteer in the classroom — and teachers almost always welcome the support. Parent volunteer opportunities might involve reading to students, organizing a project, planning a class party, supervising outdoor playtime, or chaperoning a field trip. Different
18 • SanDiegofamily.com • September 2019