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SCHOOL YEAR As another wonderful summer concludes, we’ll been busy preparing for the upcoming school year. We have spent time shopping for school supplies and clothing. My wife, who is a teacher, has been in her classroom preparing for her students. Ultimately, preparation is the key to a successful year for both the student and the parent. But preparation extends beyond school supplies and clothing. There are several things you can do to help your child be mentally and physically ready for the demands of the upcoming school year. Anticipation of the first day of school can create anxiety for a young child. Be sure to calm the child’s fears by pointing out all the positive aspects of going to school. For children attending school for the first time, separation can be just as hard on the parents. It is important for the parents to suppress their anxious emotions in front of the child in order to help make the first separation a positive experience. Keep in mind that statements like, “You are leaving me and I will miss you,” make the youngster feel guilty. Thus, statements like this should be avoided, even though they are thought to engender a loving atmosphere. On the first day, it is advisable to take your children to school and walk them into their classroom. This not only gives the child a sense of security, it reassures the parent as well. If you are unable to take your child to school on the first day, try to arrange an earlier meeting at the bus stop with neighborhood children and friends. This is a good time in which to ease the child into the upcoming day and share some laughs before boarding the bus. Remember, teachers and staff are well trained and prepared to deal with the separation anxiety of the child in the classroom. Safety is an essential part of the school day. Bus safety involves keeping a safe distance from the moving vehicle and waiting in position until the bus has come to a full stop. Seat belts, if available, should be worn and children should be advised to stay seated while on the bus. When driving to school in a private auto, seat belts must be worn. Teen drivers have a higher incidence of accidents, so parents must remain vigilant in reminding their children to wear seat belts and use caution when driving. Also, keep in mind that children under 13 should be seated in the rear with car seats and boosters when necessary. Be certain that children are wearing their helmets any time they are on their bike, especially when riding to and from school during higher traffic hours. Bike accidents are common and helmets help prevent serious head injuries. From a medical perspective, be sure that your child has had a medical evaluation prior to attending school and that immunizations are up to date. Be sure that appropriate documentation has been completed if your child is a participant in sports as well. Sports physicals are a good screening tool and an excellent way to establish contact with a health care provider. In summary, preparation on the part of both parent and child will make for a successful academic year. |
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