It is that time of year again for most of us. Freshly bought supplies are loaded up into backpacks and students nervously ponder all that may be in their new year. Here are some things to keep in mind as we all begin a new school year.
If you have the opportunity, volunteer to help your child(ren)s teacher. As a former classroom teacher I can attest that there is a
HUGE challenge daily to get to all the work to be done. First there is the important work (looking at classroom data and assessments, goal setting, lesson planning) and then there is all the busy work too such as photo-copying, cutting, filing, bulletin boards etc… Parents can help out in getting this busy work done. It is an enormous help for teachers in getting it off of their plate so that they can focus on instruction. Keep in mind you are there to help the teacher. As much as we may want to see our
precious little ones, don’t forget you are there to contribute to your child’s classroom in completing tasks the teacher needs done. This may mean spending your time in the teacher supply closet or photocopy room.
Secondly, at home we can ask our children to share about their day. Asking them to reflect and talk about the day helps them process information and help further learning occur. Here is my favorite saying that I heard recently: “He who talks the most, learns the most.” If the talking is done in a purposeful context learning is ‘cemented’ further. That is why talking is a
big part of all classroom learning these days. Students are asked to talk about the math problem they solved (or are struggling with), the essay they are writing and the reading they are doing.
That said, sometimes I struggle with my girls to tell me anything at the dinner table about their day. If anyone has some creative ways to get your kids to open up at the dinner table and share more about their day I would be happy to hear about it!