Believe it or not, your attitude can be a determinative factor in this equation. If you can generate a positive atmosphere of anticipation, possibly even of celebration, as the beginning of the academic year approaches, you may wake up one morning to find that your enthusiasm is actually rubbing off on the kids. The key is to be intentional about giving them reasons to look forward to the back-to-school experience.
How do you do that? We suggest you begin by talking it up as much as possible. Initiate conversations with them about the coming school term. Remind them of old friends they’ve missed seeing over the summer. Stir up some excitement about the new friends and new activities they can expect to encounter this year. Find out everything you can about their teacher or teachers and the subjects they’ll be studying. Come up with a plan to help them start forming positive mental images of what lies ahead. You’d be surprised what a difference your words and your outlook can make.
Shopping for school supplies can do wonders in this regard. New backpacks and school clothes, fresh paper and notebooks, shiny new pencils and pens – all of this can boost a kid’s morale and bolster his or her self-image in a huge way. If finances are limited in your household, you may be able to tap into local programs that sponsor giveaways of free school supplies.
In the meantime, if your child attends public school, you may also want to gear up by taking steps to get involved in an active way. Find out how you can take part in school functions. If possible, become a classroom volunteer. Join the parent-teacher organization (PTO), make friends with the teachers and administrators, pray for them, and let them know how much you appreciate what they’re doing. Assume that you and the school’s faculty are on the same team unless problems arise that convince you otherwise. A great way to support your child is through a mother’s prayer group such as
Moms in Prayer International (800-949-MOMS).
The whole idea is to show your kids, not only by your words but also through your actions, that you care enough to walk beside them as they step back into the classroom this fall. When they see how much their education means to you, we predict they’ll begin to look upon it as an exciting adventure.
If you need additional suggestions, call our Counseling Department for a free consultation.
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