Back to School, Back to Reality!

Back to School, Back to Reality!

It is that time of year again. School supplies are being purchased. Classrooms are being set up. Teachers are preparing for a new year with new students. Students are picking out clothes and backpacks. Parents are grateful school will start soon. Students, not so much! They have enjoyed sleeping in, playing all day, and just doing nothing. Are your kids ready?

For some students school is not so much fun for many different reasons. Some kids really dread school. There are many reasons, bullies, learning issues, lack of friends, “mean” teachers, homework and school work that frustrate them. These students may need a different kind of preparing. They find school stressful for many reasons. Of course we all know about the issue of bullies. So, how can parents, teachers, and other caregivers help these students?

We can help by for starters listening to them. Listen when they have a good day or a not so good day. Help them see the positives in their day. Many times we focus on the negatives in the day and not on the good stuff that happens. What did you have for lunch? What did you do at recess? Your friend was nice and helped you out today, great!

Also, help be an advocate for your student. Help them by giving a voice to the things that are bothering them, either, teach them to be their own voice or step in and help when they need it. Kids need to know they have grown up friends and helpers who are willing to step in when they need help. Maybe just listening when they have had a rough day or helping with homework that is really hard for them.

For older students and teens, don’t be afraid to monitor their social media and cell phones. Now, do this with them standing there with you. Go through their texts and Facebook to see who they are talking to. Help them to understand that, one you are watching and aware, and two you are watching out for others who may want to do your teen harm. Yes they will argue with you and say that you are invading their privacy. You are being their parent! Yes, they need privacy, but they also need to know they are being held accountable. This will hopefully weed out the trouble making kids in your child’s life.

Talk openly with your student about their friends and what they do with them in school and outside of school. This shows that not only do you care about them but their friends too. Talk to your kids about their struggles and why they struggle. Your child may be a straight “A” student, but they really struggle with making friends. They may be totally flunking out of school and struggling with how they feel about themselves.

Be aware of your child’s friends and when they may come to you for help because their parent it not available. They have identified you as a safe person, be their advocate too. Be their voice. If you see them struggling talk to them. Invite your child’s friends to your home to hang out. If they need help with their homework, help them. Maybe they live in a single parent home and their parent works and struggles with helping to get homework finished. Make your home that safe home. Let them come hang out after school until their parent gets home.

Be aware of what is going on around you as a parent or caregiver. If you see a child in need of extra help, then be their helper. Share extra school supplies, snacks, and time. I know it seems like a lot sometimes, but in the end it means so much more to a kid who really needs to be heard!