| Well, it's that time of year again - back to school. | | | | a little less hectic in the morning. And, no matter how |
| Parents across the country are searching for sales on | | | | well prepared we think we are, we always make sure |
| back to school supplies, shoes, clothes and haircuts. | | | | we have the grab and go breakfasts, like hot pockets, |
| Kids are searching for new cell phones and laptops | | | | pop tarts, etc. for when my teenaged son wakes up |
| (wishful little thinkers aren't they?). At least we all have | | | | three minutes before his first class starts. |
| one thing in common, nerves. Parents are worried | | | | So, they are rested and fed and well on their way. |
| about how their kids will perform and whether or not | | | | Hopefully, their school day will have been a fun and |
| they'll have good friends who can influence them | | | | educational experience. And, now you have to help |
| positively. Kids are worried about friends, new and old, | | | | them get back into the 'homework and study' mode. |
| teachers, grades and a whole host of other things. | | | | It's a daunting task, but the sooner you start, the better |
| There are a few things you can do to help get back in | | | | the results (hopefully). Try setting a time for homework |
| to the swing of things. | | | | each day and have your kids stick with it. If your kids |
| If your kids are anything like mine, they'll need a | | | | participate in after school activities, sometimes it can |
| complete sleep overhaul. The later nights mean later | | | | be difficult. My youngest studies Tang Soo Do at least |
| mornings. I usually try to start the kids going to sleep a | | | | four days a week. So, we try and set his homework |
| little earlier each night, for about a week, before the | | | | time after karate class, while I am making dinner. He |
| first day of school. Nothing to drastic, I don't want to | | | | sits at the kitchen table, where I can help him as |
| throw their little bodies into shock. About 20 to 30 | | | | needed. Older kids should be able to set their own |
| minutes earlier each day, until they get back to their | | | | time, but you might need to give them a gentle nudge |
| regular school night bed time, should do the trick. | | | | in the right direction every now and then. |
| Alright, so they are well rested and, I'm sure, eager for | | | | Bottom-line, find a routine that works for your family |
| the first day. If you have elementary aged kids you | | | | and stick with it; the more regular, the better. Have a |
| might want to pick out an outfit or two, for the first | | | | happy, healthy and productive school year. |
| day, ahead of time. It tends to make the first few days | | | | |