Preparing Your Kids for School

 Focus on Logistics
How will your child or teen get to school most mornings? Whether it’s walking, biking, carpooling, driving or busing, discuss with your kids the details of how, what, where and when. Most schools send out bus stop information a couple of weeks ahead of the first day, and if you have any questions about exact bus stop locations, ask your neighbors.

Focus on Teachers
Meeting your child’s teacher can help ease the start of a new year. Some schools offer a meet-and-greet at the school prior to day one, while others have teachers go on coordinated home visits (my children’s elementary school does this—it’s fantastic!). Middle and high schools usually have a day that students can walk their schedule and meet their teachers.

“Parents often wait for scheduled conferences or the telephone call summoning them to a school meeting,” said Dr. Richard Horowitz, a parenting and family coach with Growing Great Relationships. “Call the school and set up an appointment with your child’s teacher or teachers of major subjects at the middle and high school level. The purpose of the meeting is for you to establish your presence as a concerned parent and to tell the teacher about your child.”
“I pray for their future teachers and classes ahead of the school year,” said Toni Shiloh, reminding us that as Christian parents, we can ask God to advocate for our children and their academic life.