After researching for a speaking engagement at the Michigan Reading Association this year, I wanted to give readers advice on how they can help prepare their children for school. There are simple things that can be done at home that will make your child’s school experience a more positive one. I’ve asked teacher bloggers to be guests on this site, Be The Difference, to share their insights with you over the next 6 weeks! I am so thankful for their expertise.
Today I welcome Kiana Porter-Isom as our Guest Blogger. Kiana is a former educator and now helps those in education as a career coach and income strategist. You can find out more about her services and programs at Edupreneur Today. You can also connect with Kiana on Twitter or Instagram. Thank you for sharing with us Kiana!
Repeatable processes and consistent routines fill a child’s school day. These instructional rituals are tools used by teachers to empower students in the classroom and manage time so more can be dedicated to instruction instead of transitions. Experts confirm children adjust better during times of uncertainty and transition when they know what to expect and when they can anticipate what will happen next. Acclimating children to a daily set of routines helps them feel empowered and competent to handle any situation. Here are three routines parents can implement at home to help children succeed in school.
Morning Routine
Many adults find a predictable morning routine helpful in setting their day up for success, however, children too benefit from of a set of morning rituals. If parents are not intentional, the morning of a child can be hurried and unpredictable. Establishing a consistent morning routine for children will help get them into the practice of adhering to a set schedule, which they will have to do in school each day. The morning routine of a child should include: a consistent time to wake up, time for hygiene and dressing, breakfast, and quiet time for a book or conversation with parents. Reserving time before the school day for empowering activities will increase the likelihood of a successful school day.
Afterschool Routine
Whether a child is returning to the home soon after school or later in the evening, the afterschool routine is critical. There is often an expectation that the learning occurring during the school day will continue outside of the school day. This learning is presented in the form of homework, projects, or other activities. Dedicating structured time, or a routine, for children to complete these activities creates an environment for the learning taking place, which will correlate to increased success during the following school day. A productive afterschool routine for children of all ages should include: a nutritious snack or meal, dedicated time to decompress (maybe through play) followed up with structured time to complete extended learning activities.
Bedtime Routine
The transition into bedtime will vary depending on the age of the child. Even short bedtime routines are powerful for children given they are consistent and predictable. For younger children, the bedtime routine can include a short story and for older children it could include the practice of writing in a journal or reading a favorite novel. When planning a bedtime routine for children, consider that research suggests unplugging from electronic devices at least 30 minutes prior to bed maximizes sleep quality.
Will every routine go perfectly every day? Absolutely not. The goal with implementing routines is consistency not perfection. Children of all ages will benefit from established routines. Not only will routines in the home help students adjust better and experience success during the school day, but they will also be well acclimated to an environment where clear expectations are the norm.
What is a favorite routine you’ve implemented in the home?