8 back to school goals for parents

Back to school fever intensifies as each day passes in August. Summer camps are ending, vacations are over, and school supply shopping begins. Your child may have things they want to accomplish, but what are your personal goals for yourself as a parent this school year?

Goal 1: Stay organized! Designate places for backpacks and school supplies. Organized households produce calmer children.

Goal 2: Designate a homework location. Preferably, this spot is away from noise and distractions. Your child must associate homework with a place that signifies important work is to be completed. Children are more successful in a defined location.

Goal 3: Be a cheerleader, not a crutch! Homework can create battles. Everyone needs encouragement, and most of all, children. Be supportive, but not the answer person. Ask questions. Allow your child to complain. Everyone needs to vent.

Goal 4: Volunteer to help your child’s teacher. Even if you can’t physically attend a field trip or volunteer in the classroom, ask the teacher if there are other ways you can help. Maybe you could offer to make phone calls, coordinate an event or cut out letters.

Goal 5: Read every paper that comes home. They are important. Do not sign anything without thoroughly reading it. If you are short on time, sign it and ask for it to be sent home again. This is especially important for your child’s tests.

Goal 6: Encourage independence. The earlier you teach your child to be responsible for their belongings and materials, the faster they will be independent. Show your child how to pack their backpack. Most importantly, ask them specifically, "What three things do you need this morning?” Let them count off, “Backpack, lunch box, and library books!”

Goal 7: No excuses! If your child makes a mistake or forgets something, teach them that actions have consequences. Problem solve with them to figure out a solution. If they forget a book for homework, strategize! Is there someone they could call? Is there other work they could do to demonstrate responsibility? If there is a consequence from the teacher, explain to your child that they must accept it.

Goal 8: Communicate with your child’s teacher: Teachers want to hear from parents. Write notes! Send emails! Thank your child’s teacher for their hard work.