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Dear Friends,
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Well
the summer months are coming to a close, and school is just around the
corner. For some, this is an
exciting time! For others, it
can be a bit daunting.
Starting
school can be challenging for many, yet, with some simple steps the
experience can be one that will be remembered as fun and enjoyable.
Often, we forget how it was for us when we started out on the big
adventure. In doing so, we may not realize what the child is going
through. Patricia Twitchell shares with us a few simple steps we can
take to make this experience a positive one:
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"1. Make
this an exciting experience for your child. Everything leading up to the
first day will determine how your child will view the experience. What
you do when you shop for clothes, for school supplies and the
conversations at the dinner table can lay the foundation for a great
experience. If you are positive about what they will encounter, chances
are your child will be.
2. If you
have the opportunity, take the time to meet teachers. Also take time to
visit the school with your child in order to alleviate any anxiety they
may have.
3. Avoid minimizing your child's concerns. Take the time to listen
to what they have to say rather than saying something like, "You
shouldn't feel that way." Whatever they are feeling is real. By
listening and acknowledging their concerns you can help them alleviate
their concerns.
4. Realize you may go through some separation anxiety. If you and
your child are extremely close, the first day of school can be just as
trying for you as for them.
5. Make sure they have all your contact information in the case of
an emergency. Set ground rules for when it is appropriate to call you.
6. Have time set aside in the evening where you can check in with
your child to hear about their experiences. Be genuinely interested in
what they are learning and discovering.
7.
Always remember to take time to connect with your child before they head
out for school. Take a few extra minutes to make sure they know you love them.
By taking a few simple steps towards making the experience a positive one
you are laying the foundation for your child to do well."
Next
edition, we will give you some tips for challenging your teens toward
academic excellence. Thanks for tuning in.
Celebrating Families,
Dr. Bruce McCracken
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If you found
this information helpful, we have made other Pebbles of Truth articles
available. Each month we feature articles on the topics of: men's issues,
marriage, blended families, parenting, and church ministry to families.
You will also find a great deal more information about House on the
Rock Family Ministries! Thanks for visiting.
Please
feel free to forward this to friends and family … we just ask that you
keep it intact … thanks
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