We all want the very best for our kids and now that school is starting back up, the pressure is on. With decreased budgets and increasingly bloated classroom sizes, teachers are pinched for time, energy and resources, and simply can't mentor each individual child, regardless of how good they are. So how can you make sure your child stands out from the crowd? Here are five things you can do to giver yor kid a head start:
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Be on time. Getting your kid to school on time–with the exception of rare incidences that are outside of your control–should be a priority. An entire classroom of students should not have to suffer because of someone's inability to organize his or her life. Punctuality will make a good impression on teachers and show your child the importance of respecting other peoples' time.
Boost their confidence. A good friend of mine teaches eighth grade at a middle school in New Jersey, and adores it when her students let their personalities shine. "I like all my kids for the most part," says my friend, teacher Kimberly Porter. "But the ones I really love are confident without being cocky." Make sure you praise your child for being mature, responsible and driven, so they know what behaviors are expected of them. And remember, that while establishing self-confidence is crucial during the school-age years, your children also need to be respectful of and encouraging to their peers.
Communicate regularly. Don't be the parent that calls and emails your kids' teachers every day, multiple times a day because you want to know why your son got a B on his last essay, but do make sure to establish an open line of communication. Bring concerns up immediately and tactfully, and remember to be patient–teachers are busy people who get up early, work all day and go home to write lesson plans. Nevermind that many of them have their own families. And always be kind–you don't want to sabotage your child by making your own bad impression.
Insist on manners. You've probably noticed a common thread here: respect. If your children are respectful of their teachers and peers, if they are kind and pleasant to be around, everyone–including teachers–will notice and reciprocate. It is a parent's job to ensure that their children know how to treat people well. If nothing else is your responsibility, this is.
Take an active role. Learning does not end in the classroom. In fact, most teachers function best when they feel a true partnership with parents. Talk to your kids about what they're learning, encourage them to explore independently, help them with their homework, make sure they are well-rested, well-fed and prepared for the next day. Your efforts are sure to show in their performance and relationships.
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