Time for school supplies, early mornings and after-school activities.
As a parent of six and a former school administrator I can tell you the beginning of the school year can seem hectic. But we don’t have to be stressed because God’s Word tells us what we need to know.
BIBLICAL PROMISES:
- Let all things be done decently and in order. 1 Corinthians 14:40 (NKJV)
- When you walk, your steps will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble. Proverbs 4:12 (NKJV)
- The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. Psalm 37:23 (NKJV)
- I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye. Psalm 32:8 (NKJV)
- Commit your works to the Lord, And your thoughts will be established. A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.Proverbs 16:3; 9 (NKJV)
SUMMATION OF PROMISES:
- Do things decently and in order.
- Our steps will not be hindered and we will not stumble.
- Our steps are ordered by the Lord.
- God will instruct, teach and guide us with his eye.
- Commit your works to God, He will establish your thoughts.
- You make your plans and God will direct your steps.
Remind your child of God’s promises with the Telling Your Child the Truth scripture card set.
TOP 10 BACK TO SCHOOL TIPS:
1. Communication. Starting out the new year be sure to: visit the classroom, meet the teacher, go online, get schedules, test times, PTA meetings, contact numbers, e-mail address, and supply list. Right now is the time everyone is handing out information, so get whatever you need to stay informed.
2. Calendar. Have a large whiteboard (or whatever works best for you) with a quarterly calendar for all activities, events, deadlines, schedules, games, etc.. Hang in a prominent place.
3. The night before. What happens the night before, will dictate how the next morning goes. In the beginning, a checklist can help establish all the new responsibilities starting back in a new school year. Things like: finish homework, bathe, pack school lunch, lay out ALL clothes needed, plan breakfast, any needed cash, pack school bag, and set the alarm (and a backup) are all crucial for a smooth morning.
4. Early to bed, early to rise. Nothing can take the place of a good nights rest. Extra rest will be important, especially in that first couple of weeks when the new schedule can take a toll.
5. Eat good, eat right. Nutritious meals give kids the energy they need to stay mentally alert. Now, since most parents can spend half the day in a vehicle carting kids around this isn’t always as easy as it sounds, but planning ahead can help eliminate some junk food choices that we’ve all faced when we’re in a pinch.
6. Homework station. A quiet, well-lit, regular place to do homework with a desk and chair. Not in the bedroom, or where a TV, cell phone, or radio are. I know in the age where every device connects us to someone or something it’s not possible to take away all distractions, but the important thing is to find a place that facilitates a comfortable, quiet area that they can get their work done.
7. Extra supplies. Use a box to keep pencils, pens, staplers, calculator, paper clips, notebook paper, markers, pencil sharpener, scissors, crayons, etc. It is amazing how often you can run out of supplies with six kids, but if you keep extras on hand (and in one “known” location) it can prevent a lot of wasted time.
8. Stick to a schedule. Kids function much better on a schedule which also instills responsibility in them.
9. Study skills. Critical skills for success in school include time management, note taking, reading, test taking, writing, memory, study, and speaking skills. These are skills that must be taught at home. I really like a book called, ” Student’s Gold” which is out of print (though it’s still on Amazon and other resale sites) because it talks clearly and plainly about gaining study skills, but there are great books, apps, and programs as well as free online resources to help student’s gain proper study skills.
10. Downtime. Though school brings a full and busy schedule, every child needs some down time for themselves. Get outside and get some fresh air and some exercise. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain. In a day and age when we so rarely have down time- it’s important to have unscheduled time to relax or enjoy some quiet time or a hobby. It’s important that we don’t overlook the importance and learning opportunity in being still or having fun with family. It’s all a learning experience.
Practicing these ten things can help us stay organized and sane while at the same time helping our kids succeed at school.
