Beep, beep, beep. The ringing of your child’s alarm clock signals that a new school day has arrived. Studies show that parents have the strongest effect on children’s behavior;¹ they are children’s first and primary teachers. Children learn from parents’ actions.² So, the “do as I say, not as I do” approach often does not work!

The key to teaching good behavior is to send your kids clear and consistent messages by both talking with them and showing them how to act. Not only does it help you to enforce the rules that you set for them during the school year, but studies show that parents’ involvement with their children increases children’s success and self-esteem.³

You can help your children reach their goals in the classroom, stay healthy, and feel good about themselves. Set them up for success at school and help them prepare for their days in the classroom with the following steps:

• Plan ahead. By getting organized, you and your child can find the right balance of work and play. Your child will learn to manage her time better, and so will you.
• Make a schedule. Sitting down to plan your activities together will help you and your child stay involved in each other’s lives. Talk with your child about his interests, and work with him to set goals for the school year and make a plan for achieving them.
• Get plenty of sleep. Having enough rest will help your family start the day alert and refreshed. A good night’s sleep will fuel a positive attitude through the day and during family time in the evenings.
• Eat breakfast. Get a healthy start to each day by eating breakfast together. It will give your whole family fuel for the day ahead.
• Know the rules. Review the classroom’s rules and your expectations with your child. Check in with your child’s teachers to make sure that your child is on track.

Most important, talk with your child and ask questions about what’s going on in her life. Let her know that you are available if she needs help, but don’t wait for her to come to you. Start a conversation while you’re setting the table, going for a walk, or doing an activity together—any time and place when you can listen and respond to your child. Having lots of informal chats is usually better than a formal discussion. Knowing that you are open and willing to listen will help your child feel more comfortable talking with you.

By setting an example and showing your kids how to get ready for the classroom, you help set up your kids for success at school. You’re also helping them develop good habits and a healthy routine that will last long after the final school bell rings.

Sources

Additional Resources

Meals Matter: Cooking for Your Family, last referenced 9/15/08.

National Education Association, Getting Involved in Your Child’s Education, last referenced 9/15/08.

National Parent Teacher Association, last referenced 9/15/08.

National Sleep Foundation: Pointers for Parents, last referenced 9/15/08.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Center for Mental Health Services: Make Time To Listen, Take Time To Talk, last referenced 9/15/08.