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| Department of Education |
It’s almost time to get back to the books so start a few new habits that will create a happier, healthier home for you and your children. Habits take only a couple of weeks and a little discipline to start, but they will ease the tension in your home, mean less nagging for you and better grades for your students.Mellow MorningsEver have to wake your kids thirteen times while searching for missing text books? Do you find them scrambling to do last minute homework first thing in the morning, conduct daily wardrobe wars or have arguments about what to make for breakfast? If your mornings are messy, there are things you can do to help ease the family into the day.Start by listening. Ask your kids what their five least favorite things are about mornings. You may be surprised! Perhaps they need more bathroom time, or they want to be woken up differently; whatever their issues, get them to write a list for you.When everyone has made their lists, call a family meeting and find ways to overcome the issues. If bathroom time is a problem, set limits, make a schedule or move hair and makeup to a different area to free up some bathroom time.Avoid the morning rush and wardrobe dilemmas by insisting that bags be packed the night before and outfits chosen for the next day.If your children have trouble getting up, institute earlier bedtimes, alarm clocks and other regimens that mean you don’t have to nag.Set Academic GoalsWork with your tutors, teachers and children to set reasonable goals for the coming academic year. When kids know where they are headed, they have more motivation and direction. You can augment motivation by offering rewards for when academic goals are achieved.Extra Mural ActivitiesEncourage after-school activities that help your child to stay healthy, active and creative. Sports and artistic pursuits help students to make friends, learn social skills and become more well-rounded individuals. Support and encourage their interests and hobbies which are sure to add to their lives.Family MealsMake a commitment to eating together at least twice a week. Family meals keep the family connected and foster good communication between family members. Studies show that families who enjoy regular meals together have better relationships.Family Play DatesStart an activity together that gets your family outside and involves being active. This may be as simple as taking a walk, biking or gardening together or a more adventurous family activity like kayaking, hiking or camping. Sharing time in nature and being active is a positive way for the whole family to enjoy each other’s company.
Starting new family traditions is a wonderful way to reconnect with each other and stay connected through the busy academic year.
