by Jennifer Roberts, Founder of Conversations in the Community

Whether we are excited about the start of a new school year or bemoaning the end of summer vacation, the new school year is upon us.  As the days continue to shorten and swimming pools begin to close, our attention shifts to the more disciplined life that come with being a parent of a school aged child.  

During the summer, bedtimes may have been relaxed or they may have disappeared altogether and the only supplies our children needed to stow were their goggles and pool towels, but as the new school year dawns, our attention must shift to the important task of readying our households for a successful school year.

Establishing and communicating clear expectations for our children is paramount in helping them successfully navigate a new school year.  Here are some pointers.

Rhythms and Routines:  Most children thrive on structure and can respond successfully to schedules.  There is a comfort in knowing what is expected of them, knowing there is support if needed and consequences if they don’t meet expectations. 

Consider the age of your child when formulating schedules and routines.  Think about factors like what time your child needs to wake up each day, what time he/she needs to be at the bus stop or in your car, what time he/she gets home from school, what time he/she will complete homework or daily reading , what time he/she goes to an evening practice, what time he/she eats dinner and what time he/she will go to bed.  

This may sound overwhelming to organize on the front end, but it will save you time and frustration in the long run and it will help grow a child who is organized and accountable.  

Once you come up with the schedule, communicate it to your child.  Practice the schedule with your child and work out any kinks.  Stay flexible.  A younger child may need daily verbal reminders or pictures.  An older child may benefit from using a written checklist or a schedule that is posted in multiple places throughout your home where he/she can see it.

Zones:  My motto is that all items have a “home.” Your child’s personal  belongings should have a designated space in your home and your child should know where to store and retrieve them.  Consider where your child is to put his/her book bag, lunchbox, and water bottle when he/she arrives at home.  Where will he/she put school papers and permission slips?  Where will your child plug in his/her school issued device and where will he/she complete homework?  If your child is allowed to electronics during the school week, where is he/she able to use them and for how long?  Where do are the devices stored when they are not in use?

There is indeed much to think about to help our children acclimate to a new school year.  With support, consistency and accountability, our children will be successful.