It's a new year and time for a new start at school: new classes, new teachers and a new attitude.
Parents and students have to work together to make it a success. My best piece of advice for starting the year off right is to make homework a priority. Don't leave it until the last minute and then run around in a panic trying to get it done before bed. Start on it when you get home -- after a snack, of course -- so you can get it out of the way.
Of course it doesn't always work like that -- practices, rehearsals and other activities can get in the way. But the sooner parents establish a routine, the easier it will be to follow later in the year when things really get hectic.
I asked my friends -- teachers and parents alike -- for their ideas on a smooth start to the year. Here are some their tips.
FOR STUDENTS
Work hard from the get-go. Don't wait until the first report card to get serious about school.
Keep calm, and speak up if you don't understand or can't find something.
Don't be afraid to talk to new people.
Work hard, play hard, and be nice!
Sit up front, smile a lot, say "Yes, sir" and "Yes, ma'am" and be on time. And use the bathroom before class.
FOR PARENTS
Make sure your child eats something for breakfast everyday.
Stick to a routine, including a good night's rest.
Schedule time for the kids to just relax and play. Free time is one of the things they miss most when school starts.
Establish a shared calendar for all family members to keep track of due dates, activities and appointments.
Don't go nuts on buying school clothes before school starts (unless they wear uniforms). Do a first day of school outfit and then see what they want and need.
Make a point to meet or contact the teacher and find out their expectations for students.
Meet your child's friends. Volunteering in the classroom or eating lunch in the cafeteria is a great way to do this.
Talk to your student about school and their interests. Ask open-ended questions instead of yes or no questions.
Encourage your children to read outside of assignments.
Don't have pre-set expectations. Encourage your kids to do their best!
Do you have tips that have worked well for your children? Leave them in the comments. Follow Colleen Almeida Smith on Twitter.
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