It is time to start another school year. Hopefully everyone has had an enjoyable summer, had time to recharge, and is ready to start the year off with a bang! I remember the feeling I used to get at the end of each summer. I loved school and did well each year. But I always got this knot in my stomach at the end of each summer. I remember feeling excited, but also a little nervous about all the unknowns that go along with a new school year.
As parents, it is important to recognize that our children might experience some anxiety at the beginning of a new academic year. Whether your child is in kindergarten or high school, here are some steps for a successful school year for all ages.
- Get Organized: Have your child’s clothes laid out the night before. If you have older kids, encourage them to make this a habit. This will save valuable time and decrease stress in the morning. Try to have all papers and homework in the proper place (backpack, folders, etc.) before going to bed. Try to keep daily/weekly activities organized in a planner so that everyone knows what is on the schedule for the day. Older children should have their own planners for homework and individual activities.
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep: This is probably one of the most important steps. Many underestimate the importance of a good night’s sleep. Without enough sleep, children and adolescents can have problems with attention, memory, and problem-solving. Sleep deprivation can also significantly contribute to emotional and behavioral issues in children. Try to establish a nighttime routine that is consistent. Eliminate electronics at least 2 hours before bedtime. It also helps to wake up at the same time each day. This includes weekends as well.
- Fuel for the Day: Try to start the day with a good breakfast. So many kids tell me that they are “not breakfast eaters.” Please don’t forget breakfast. It really is the most important meal of the day. Studies have shown that breakfast eaters have better brain function, attention, and memory. Children score better on standardized tests in math, vocabulary, and spelling when they have had a good breakfast over those that have not. Even a little something in the morning will do.
- Set Attainable Goals for the School Year: Sit down with your child before school starts and talk to them about their aspirations for the school year. Help them make a list of what they want to achieve this school year. After you discuss these goals with your child, write them down. When we write our goals down and make a list that we can see, we are more likely to follow through. Goals could be as simple as wanting to get all A’s and B’s, making new friends, keeping a planner, or joining a new club.
- Have a Positive Attitude. Having a positive attitude about the school year will help start the year off right. As a parent, it is important for us to project a positive attitude as well. I know that I enjoy the lazy days of summer just as much as my children. But I know that it cannot last forever. Kids often mirror parents’ attitudes. If we project excitement about the upcoming school year, our children will as well. Positive attitude and perceptions will also carry over to the classroom. Students with a positive attitude tend to be more successful. When you believe in yourself, you are more likely to achieve your goals. Makes sense, huh?!
Wishing everyone a start to a great and successful school year!
Dr. Cockrell grew up in nearby Natchitoches, LA. She graduated magna cum laude from Northwestern State University with a BS in Biology before pursuing her medical education at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. In 2004, she proudly earned her medical degree and was honored with membership in the esteemed Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. After completing her medical residency training at LSUHSC while raising her young family, Dr. Cockrell made Shreveport her home. Since 2007, she has been a valued member of Mid City Pediatrics, certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
