Starting school is like riding a Merry-Go-Round. We begin where we end. Each time we ride, it’s just as exciting, if not more. We will have ups and downs, yet we hold together, smile brighter, and cheer louder!
As a child, I truly enjoyed the merry-go-round! It was such a thrill. I remember holding on to the metal posts as we ran around and around, finally jumping onto the merry-go-round at the last second, hanging on for "dear life" as we experienced the thrill and sensation only the merry-go-round could provide.
The yellow buses have started to roll up and down our streets, filled with students in new outfits, shiny book bags, crisp notebooks, and brand new – no color missing colored pencil boxes. The journey has begun with a chance for each child to start fresh, with new teachers, additional friends, and another opportunity to show this will be the best year yet. Now that we are off and running with two weeks under our belts and have turned the calendar to September; it’s a great month to:
Reach out to your kids' teachers: Make a point of introducing yourself and learning about class activities and expectations for the year. Find out how each teacher prefers to communicate.
Many use e-mail as the main form of contact, but phone calls and conferences (make an appointment first) are usually welcome, too.
Get in the groove: Establish healthy at-home routines for school days, such as consistent waking times and getting-ready patterns. Decide on a regular homework time, and create a comfortable, quiet work space. Set bedtimes that allow elementary-age kids to get 10 to 12 hours of sleep; teens should get 8½ to 9½ hours. Eat healthy meals and snacks.
Time things right: Stay on top of everyone's school, activity, and work schedules with a free online calendar or a smartphone app.
Pack smart: Make sure your child's backpack never weighs more than 10 to 20 percent of his body weight; heavy packs can strain developing muscles and joints. Encourage your child to use both straps, and tighten them so the pack hangs close to the body, about two inches above your child's waist.
Commit to volunteering: With help from parents like you, your school can offer many more programs and services for your kids. Join your school's PTO and ask about volunteer opportunities in the school community and your children's classrooms. (U.S. Dept. of Education) Check out our elementary PTO site: http://www.norwalkelementarypto.org/, or on facebook “Norwalk Elementary PTO”.
A final thought as we begin the new school year. We shall ride this Merry-Go-Round together. The faster it goes, we shall hold on tighter, together. When it goes up, we shall go up together. When it goes down, we shall do it together. Once the ups and downs; fast, slow, and in-between, we are at a constant, steady pace and the rides comes to an end, we all will get off the ride together….gearing up for the next Merry-Go-Round ride!