Preparing for School Mornings

The preparation for school mornings actually begins the day before as they get off the bus. Their backpack will contain any homework they need to do. Set aside a regular time and place for homework to be accomplished. Do not allow other activities until this is completed. However, it shouldn't be the first thing they do when they enter the door. They will need some down time and probably a snack. Give them time to transition.

Clothes are an important preparation that can waste a lot of time if not done properly. Pick outfits that are appropriate for the days activates, for example gym class. If you have a uniform the battle is over but if not, consider the clothing guidelines that need to be followed for your school district. Have your child help pick out their outfit if they are so inclined. If they are older, you can have them do this task by themselves. Have a specific place the outfit is placed each evening. Some of you might remember the Sunday hook. This is a hook that your Sunday outfit was hung on; you can do the same with school clothing.

Homework as mentioned above, is a daily chore. There will be days without homework but with or without, as a parent, it is always best to have a conversation about the days activities and the learning that took place. Take time to hear your children. Show your interest. Make sure you are engaged in their learning process. Assist with homework as needed. This does not mean doing it for them. Sometimes too much help can become assistance. Be able to contact your child's teacher or homework help line if needed. Know how to do this in advance.

Food is so important and is more of a consideration than just lunch. Deciding whether to bring lunch from home or buy lunch at school is just a part of the consideration. Dinner the night before is important to gain a good night's sleep. Breakfast is important to get your body going in the morning. A well balanced diet is ultimately the best choice for you and your child.

Bedtime needs to be set and followed. The timing is dependent upon your child's needs, the start time of the day and school as well as your house holds schedule. Keeping to a routine as much as possible is the best option.

Extra curricular activities can be supportive or obtrusive. You know your child best and can decide for yourself. As an example, we started first grade this year. It was a huge change in our schedule attending school on a daily basis. It was our choice to stop all extra curricular activities for a time so that our daughter got settled into her school routine well. We will assess this over time and decide what she is capable of handling. If you choose to add additional activities, do so one at a time. Wait to see how it affects your routine before considering another addition. Also monitor your child's schoolwork to see if the additional requirement is hampering the learning process. As mentioned throughout this article, routine is key. Children prefer knowing their boundaries and what to expect. Following a schedule will result in fewer arguments and delays. No matter how much we like or dislike routine, it is a proven fact that children thrive with a routine and supportive family.