Parental Tips for Promoting Your Child’s Academic Success Throughout the School Year

• During my childhood, the excitement of a new school year would quickly diminish.
• Now, as a parent, I strive to have everything under control for my daughter, but I often find myself overwhelmed.
• This year, I have embarked on a mission to make our lives easier by implementing six strategies.

During my childhood, the beginning of each school year brought a sense of hope and excitement. However, as time passed, I would often forget to complete assignments or perform poorly on quizzes, leading to disappointment and a belief that the following year might be better.

As a parent, I start each school year with the intention of being organized. I promise myself to complete all necessary paperwork, remember important dates, and help my child stay on top of her assignments. However, despite my efforts, I still find myself being the frazzled parent who forgets important tasks, such as sending a note to school after a sick day or scheduling parent-teacher conferences on time.

As I enter my 15th year of parenting a school-aged child, I have decided that this is the year things will change. Despite the challenges of COVID and my own health issues, I am determined to make this school year one of organization and timeliness. Here’s how I plan to achieve it:

I purchased a family calendar

To prepare for the upcoming school year, I have started dedicating a few minutes every Sunday evening to jot down our commitments for the week. Each child has their own designated color marker, allowing us to easily track soccer practice, dentist appointments, and other summer camp engagements.

I evaluated our existing supplies

With multiple children in school, we have accumulated numerous backpacks and lunch bags over the years. Before purchasing new items, I have reassessed our current inventory, determining whether any replacements are necessary.

I created a command center

Following the advice of Suzanne Barchers, an accomplished education specialist, I have invested in bins to manage the overwhelming amount of paperwork that enters our home. By sorting incoming papers immediately and allocating color-coded bins for different purposes, I aim to prevent papers from piling up and causing unnecessary stress.

I initiated open conversations with my kids

Prior to the start of the school year, I have engaged in thoughtful discussions with my children about their goals and aspirations for the upcoming year. It is essential for parents to collaborate with their children rather than solely acting on their behalf. Suzanne Barchers emphasizes the importance of children taking responsibility for their own success, stating, “Parents forget that kids can be responsible. In order for kids to be invested in their own success, they need to participate.”

I am practicing self-compassion

In previous years, I would become disheartened after making a single mistake. Rather than succumbing to failure mindset, I have decided to be kinder to myself. I do not wish to demonstrate this destructive behavior to my children. It is okay for both me and my children to experience setbacks, as they are valuable learning experiences. As Barchers advises, “Post-COVID, we cannot simply expect to seamlessly return to our previous selves. Remember that it has been tough and give yourself a break.”

I am honing my role as a lifeline

Although the school year has yet to commence, I am finding ways to support my children without overshadowing their autonomy. Barchers suggests offering “little rescues” along the way and involving children in problem-solving. By demonstrating that I am on their side, my children will feel comfortable seeking my assistance.