Back to School Tips – Elementary School
For an elementary school child, the main responsibility of preparing for the new academic year is of the parents’. There are many ‘new’ aspects that both students & parents have to cope with:
New Curriculum & Expectations– More than anything else, it’s the upgraded curriculum and subjects that make most students nervous about a new school year. With the advanced syllabus, everybody knows that there comes about more study time and more homework. Many children begin to feel edgy when advanced topics are taught in class. It’s always a good idea to have your little one practice for subjects like math, reading, and writing ahead of the school year. This will help your child keep in touch during the summer break, know what to expect, and feel confident when those topics are taught in a classroom. You could either home-teach your child or enroll her in a ‘Back to School’ program.
New books
With the new curriculum and syllabus, it is difficult to carry on the books from last school year. However, writing and art books with blank pages can be preserved, decorated, and reused for practice and play. Children are always fascinated and motivated to study from their new books.
New Teachers
It’s natural for parents & kids to feel anxious about meeting and learning with a new teacher. ‘Will I like my new teacher?’ ‘Will my child’s new teacher understand her problems?’ are some obvious questions that arise. However, there is one basic thing we need to remember – All teachers are humans! They have emotions and a natural instinct to love and teach their young students. Moreover, as a part of their teacher-training program, all teachers are equipped to handle various situations and children from various social, emotional, and intellectual backgrounds. If possible it’s always good to connect with new teachers and convey to them that you are happy to be involved in your child’s progress at school.
New class
In the new academic year, if your child is progressing to elementary school from kindergarten, you will have to mentally prepare your little one for a new environment in a new classroom. Schools and teachers make sure that the transition to the next grade is gradual and smooth but its always a good idea to speak to your child about the progression.
New activities
Every year, your child will participate in various after-school activities. It’s always good to know the various after-school activities your child can take up in the coming school year and get her mentally prepared for them. As a parent, be a part of the PTA to have a better idea of the various school events. Volunteer for school trips and other events to make your child feel happier and motivated.
New school kits
As your child’s summer break comes to a close, parents have a plethora of ‘Back to School’ kits to choose from. Each seems better than the other. Your child would want to own every other kit. However, choosing the right school kit depends entirely on what your child has and what is needed. Often shoes, clothes, bag packs, lunch bags, and stationery kits can be reused from last year. Other than saving you some money, it would also teach your child the importance of valuing what they have and hence keeping them carefully. Hand-me-downs from friends and family when their kids have outgrown clothes are also a budget-friendly option.
