As summer winds down and our children have returned to school, this year will look different on so many levels, including reduced class sizes in school and remote and virtual class options. Our families will need to adapt to this new reality. Parents face the familiar yet stressful challenge of getting their children back into a routine and prepared for a successful start to the school year, even though this year will look dramatically different.
As a father to three children who are enrolled in three different schools, I understand firsthand how stressful back-to-school has been this year. I cannot thank my wife enough for all her “back-to-school” work as well!
When parents are engaged and involved in their children's education, the children tend to do better and have more positive feelings about going to school. This year parents might be “at work” and children will be “in school” all under one roof, or in the same room. Here are some easy ways parents can support their children's learning at home and throughout the school year, even if school is in the home:
- Make sure your child gets plenty of rest.Rest is vitally important for a child’s growth and development. Most of all, getting enough sleep is essential for boosting immunity and brain function. When a child or teen is sleep deprived, it impacts alertness, learning ability, memory, mood and behavior. How much sleep your child needs will depend on age. Children 3-6 years old need approximately 10-12 hours of sleep per night. For 7- to 12-year-olds, 10-11 hours of sleep per night are recommended. For teenagers, 8-9 hours of sleep are needed. Remember also that children and teens may need short naps after school to adjust to their new schedules, especially if they are participating in athletic practices.
- Write notes of encouragement. Heading back to school can bestressful for many kids, because it means leaving you behind. While most kids will adjust to this after a few days or weeks, you can ease the transition by sneaking little notes in their lunch box, folder, or backpack. This can help them feel closer to you, and not knowing when and where they will be when they get your message is a fun way to add some excitement to their day.
- Partner with educators.Parents can support their child's academic success by working with his or her teachers to support learning. Play an active role in your child's education by knowing what they are studying at school and routinely communicating with his or her teachers. Set expectations and academic goals at the beginning of the school year and monitor your child's progress.
- Take advantage of the YMCA’s Before-school and Afterschool Program. Driving in rush hour is stressful enough as it is, not to mention a tight schedule, highway closures, meetings that run overtime, and unpredictable weather.Before-school & Afterschool Programs at the Ygive you more time to get to and from the office safely.While you sit bumper to bumper, our team will care for your kids in a safe and healthy environment conveniently located in your community.
- Stay Active. If your child is not enrolled in an afterschool program or sport, finding ways to stay active during the school year can be difficult, especially as the weather gets colder. With our children potentially enrolled in virtual or remote options, you may be able to take planned “health breaks” right at home. Our YMCA has virtual options available for busy parents, and your child just might join along.