7 Tips to Bring Out the Best in Your Child this New School Year!

It’s tempting to block out the thought that the summer holidays have officially ended and school opens on September 2, 2019 (tomorrow). At Rayneau we feel obliged to share a few tips with you on helping your child to a successful new school year. Just as we cherish our customers so do we with their children. Back to school time can be a hectic time for both you and the kids.

We take it that you have already:

1. Visited the school
2. Learnt about the school’s entrance and exit policies.
3. Visited the doctor for your child's physical and eye exam
4. Bought all the child's school books and supplies

Here are some of our best back to school tips to help ensure this school year gets off to a great start!

Introduce yourself to your teacher’s child

It’s always nice to start the year by introducing yourself to your child’s teacher. The more you can learn what the teacher will expect of your child at the start of the year, the better you can help your child meet these expectations during the next nine months. Ask him or her about the preferred method of communication. (Some teachers are active on email and social media, while others prefer the phone or in-person meetings.)

Make Homework a priority

Make homework time a daily habit. Find a quiet and consistent place at home where your child can complete his or her homework. If your child is having difficulty with his or her homework, make an appointment with the teacher sooner rather than later.

Prepare a study area
Set up a special place at home to do school work and homework. Remove distractions. Make it clear that education is a top priority in your family: show interest and praise your child’s work.

Regulate tv/computer time
Limit the time that you let your child watch TV, and when you do decide to do TV time, make it a family affair. Talk together about what you see and ask questions after the show ends.

Set up routine sleep/wake time
During the summer, children aren’t always on a schedule, which is understandable. But, proper rest is essential for a healthy and productive school year. Help your kids get back on track sleep-wise by having them go to bed earlier and wake up earlier during this first week of school.

 Prepare healthy meals

Let’s face it – no one can concentrate when they’re hungry. Studies show that children who eat healthy, balanced breakfasts and lunches do better in school. Fix nutritious meals at home, and, if you need extra help, contact the principal at the school about the school’s feeding program.

Read to your child everyday
Make a plan to read with your child for at least 20 minutes every day. Your example reinforces the importance of literacy, and reading lets you and your child explore new worlds of fun and adventure together.

Paying attention to these few tips now as the school year begins will help keep your child learning smoothly during the school year, even if there are a few bumps in the road.

Happy Back to School!