Get Your School On!

Chris Jones, LPC
Run with Chris this Saturday!
www.ucpdallas.org/elvisrun

10 tips for starting the school year right.

We all love our children, but be honest — we simply cannot endure another museum, soccer game, hot dog party, gymnastics class or a 6 year old's rendition of High School Musical. We want school to start. TODAY!

Tempting as it may be, let's not just rocket them out the door with a pb&j and a new Transformer's backpack. Start now to build a foundation for achievement.

LifeWorks' Top 10 hot tips to get the school year started right

1. Create a clutter-free, distraction-free study space in the home: If your kid can see a TV or smell food in the kitchen, you're toast.

2. Begin adjusting to the school year sleep schedule: Your kids require at least 8 hours. Hitting them on the head with a hammer to get them to sleep on time is not an appropriate parenting choice.

3. Get those final few appointments scheduled to avoid unnecessary absences or tardies: Dentist, optometrist, dermatologist, vaccinations, probation officer, ...

4. Meet the teachers: Meet each of them now so that you and your child can build rapport and develop a Disaster Prevention Plan. The day after the first zero is a day too late.

5. Review safety tips with your child for riding a bus, biking, walking or riding to school in a car: Visit www.nsc.org/mem/youth/8_school.htm.

6. Re-learn time management: Allot time for school, exercise, friends and chores. Children should continue to share in household chores as they take on new responsibilities with school. It's part of growing up. If they whine, we suggest a simple two-word response: Tough beans!

7. Brush up on your child and adolescent development: It's only been 3 short months but your child's brain is not the same as it was in May (we're sure you've noticed that by now). www.Education.com/reference/ontrack.

8. Get your school supply shopping out of the way at least one week in advance: Otherwise, all the best stuff at Target will be gone.

9. Review bullying and how to cope with it: (See hammer comment above — also not an appropriate dispute resolution tool)

10. Word to the wise: "I hate this class" in kid terms often translates into adult lingo as "This is very difficult, and I don't think I can do it." A new grade in school is like a new job to you and me. There is excitement mixed with anxiety. Be prepared to nudge them along.

For help with kids and school-related issues, contact Chris Jones at (214) 357-4001. Call for an appointment today.