The kids have just gone back to school, and many mothers are breathing a sigh of relief. Now is the time to make sure that the school year is off to a good start, so your kids will grow academically and socially, and enjoy a productive year.
First, be sure that your children have good backpacks. An ill-fitting backpack, or one that is too heavy, can cause back problems years down the line. Buy a book-bag that has two straps that allow the pack to be carried on the back. The straps should be wide and well padded. A good backpack needs many pockets, and should be very spacious. A drink pocket on the side is always great for a spare water bottle. Check the bag periodically throughout the year to ensure that is not too heavy, and to adjust the straps so that it is worn correctly. Going through your child’s knapsack with him or her will also help them be more organized.
Check with school policies to ensure that there are playground monitors present whenever necessary, and that playground equipment is safe. If they don’t already have it you may want to mention to the authorities at your child’s school to consider using rubber mulch for the playground surface. Rubber flooring is eco-friendly, as it is made from recycled tires, and has an extra measure of shock absorbency, resulting in fewer injuries. Rubber flooring is quickly becoming the ultimate standard in playground safety.
Set up a system with your child regarding lunch. Many children skip lunch altogether, and find it harder to learn as the day goes on, because they are hungry. If your child is happy with school lunches, make sure that they are paid for so that lunch is readily available. If not, come up with a system to ensure that he or she has lunch ready to take to school each morning. You may want to prepare it the night before. Get your child involved, so lunch is as much their responsibility as it is yours.
Check in with your child’s teachers periodically to ensure that everything is okay. Be sure to attend parent – teacher meetings, and carefully read any notes sent home by the teacher. Be sure to ask your child every night what they have for homework, and to sign it, if necessary, before they go to sleep.
