As a family, create a routine that will make mornings run smoothly.
Help your child do something nice for another person.
Ask your child to tell you about one of this year’s teachers.
Take advantage of time in the car with your child. You can talk privately without interruption.
Play cards, charades, or a board game with your child.
Attendance matters! Set your child up for success by making regular school attendance an expectation for your household.
Discuss a controversial issue with your child. Ask, “What do you think?”
Ask your child a specific question about school, such as “What do you think will be your most challenging class?”
Talk about things your child is looking forward to learning in the
coming year.
Say to your child, “If there’s anything you want to talk about, I’ll listen.”
Find quotations that will motivate your child. Post one on the bathroom mirror.
Enjoy some physical activity with your child today.
Compliment something about your child today.
Remember to recognize your child’s effort and progress—not just results.
Teach your child to trust gut feelings. If your child thinks a situation may get out of hand, it’s best to avoid it.
Ask your child’s advice about a problem you are facing.
Review the highs and lows of the last school year. Discuss with your child ways this year could be better.
Look for a skill you and your child can learn together. It’s a fun way to get to know your child on a new level.
Encourage your child to use sticky notes to write things to remember.
Teach your child to use positive self-talk. Phrases such as “I can do this” help keep kids motivated.