After nearly three months of summer fun, it’s time to get into a routine that will help your child succeed in the upcoming school year.
“The most important thing parents can do is to ease their children back into their school schedule,” says LaKeitha Givens, YouthQuest Program Director. “A lot of students lack schedules for the summer, so it’s important to get them back into those bedtime and morning rituals.”
There are many ways families can aid in the transition at home. For example, you might:
- Visit the Flint Cultural Center or read a book together to help students get into a more scholarly mode.
- Pick out clothes, get backpacks ready and make lunch the night before. The first few weeks of school can be crazy, so it’s best to prepare as much as possible the night before.
- Work alongside your child as he or she does homework. This will model good study behavior for them.
- Establish a homework center, free of distractions like the TV, game consoles, and other electronic devices.
- Get students excited for the new school year by including them in shopping for school supplies.
- Listen to your student’s anxiety and apprehension about the new year. This will help validate their feelings and boost their confidence.
Here are some additional transitional tips from the U.S. Department of Education.
- Get student records organized. Before the school year gets into full swing, try to schedule any medical appointments that may be needed and finish any applications needed for health and nutrition programs.
- Pack nutritious lunches and snacks. Following dietary guidelines will ensure your student has the proper nutrition to excel academically.
- Stay active. School means more time indoors throughout the day, so don’t forget to keep physical activity a part of the daily routine.
- Try new extracurricular activities. Afterschool programs, like YouthQuest, are a great way for kids to form new friendships, develop teamwork skills and improve academic proficiencies.
According to Givens, the YouthQuest staff helps students get back into school mode through guided discovery learning and hands-on activities.
“Our programming is engaging, and it connects to the school day,” Givens says. “We’re all about getting students excited about learning.”
YouthQuest is made possible through the generous support of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and 21st Century Community Learning Centers.