School not only presents challenges for kids but for parents too. We’ve compiled a list of 5 top tips to ensure both you and your kids enjoy stress-free school days, making 2017 successful both inside the classroom and out of it.
1. School Lunch Plan
By using a lunch plan every week you’ll not only make grocery shopping a breeze but will be able to plan-ahead to avoid rushed mornings and packing quick unhealthy snacks into those lunchboxes. Remember to factor in your child’s after school activities and also consider whether they have physically or mentally challenging activities during their school day.
2. Homework Hour
Homework is a battle for most families. Why not introduce a set time for homework during the evening, allowing enough time for dinner, bathing, family time and a bit of relaxation or play. Also, ensure you are aware of exactly what homework your children have and talk to them about it to make sure they understand what is expected of them. This will also enable you to realistically monitor the time its taking them and adjust “homework hour” accordingly.
Sometimes identifying a “homework area” is also a useful tool for getting kids to be free of all distractions while doing their homework. This designated area will also help to keep kids’ bedrooms or other rooms in the home free of any negative connotations associated with homework. You can also keep a bit of stationery and other necessities here for those times when kids forget their pencil bags at school. This is also a great place to keep project supplies.
3. Time management
As they get older, your children’s work load will increase and this presents its own set of challenges. Help your kids with to do lists and other aspects of time management – an aspect of success that becomes increasingly important year after year. This will also enable them to prioritise their work and tasks.
4. Rise and Shine
School days are long, especially for kids and tests have proved that they need at least 8-9 hours of sleep a night. Make sure they get enough rest to have a successful day. It’s important that your kids have a balanced meal in the morning so if your kids struggle to get up, pack them a breakfast for the ride to school. Routine is very important in the mornings and you should make sure your kids have one. Use waking up to teach them independence too. Buy them an alarm clock and get them to wake themselves up, brush their teeth and get ready for school.
By putting out their uniform and packing their bag the night before, you’ll also reduce the rush in the morning and allow for a minute or two of extra snooze time.
5. Activity Rosters
Overscheduling is one of the biggest sources of stress for both kids and parents. By ensuring your family has a visible roster in the home, you’ll be able to keep track of extra mural activities, kids parties and other notable dates. Ensure you use a different colour for each child and try to co-ordinate their calendars.
