Gearing up for school engagement

The first day of school is only a few weeks away, so we’re talking back to school prep.

The first day of school can be an exciting and anxiety inducing time for kids and parents. Practicing good attendance from day one is key to your child’s academic success. Building a foundation of good attendance habits early on gives your child the habits to be a lifelong learner.

We’ll talk more about attendance and how to practice good habits as we kick off Attendance Awareness month in September.

Parents play an important role in their child’s academic success that goes beyond getting them to school. By being involved in your child’s school, you can help to advance healthy and happy behavior among children. There’s more to it than just staying in the know. According to the CDC, “students who feel supported by their parents are less likely to experience emotional distress” among other concerns.

Active and engaged parents not only help their children stay happy and healthy, but their young students also perform better academically, practice healthier behaviors, and develop and use good social skills.

What’s not to love about all that? To get a jump on your back-to-school engagement, check out these helpful tips:

  • Consider  taking on a decision-making role in your child’s school

  • Ask your school to provide educational opportunities that you and your child can work on together

  • Talk to your child about health-related behaviors

  • Set goals with your child’s school or teacher to work toward healthy and strong relationships with peers and adults who can bolster your child’s wellbeing

Matt WhitmanPreschoolers