Keep the Enthusiasm Alive – Parents and Teachers Doing Their Part Individually and Collectively

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Take a good look at this face. My daughter, a happy go lucky child, who went to bed anxiously waiting for the next morning that is universally and so often called, “The first day of school.” I just hope that by June of 2013, that smile is still there.

 

This 2012-2013 school year, we enrolled our daughter in a new school – Montessori/Environmental Sciences Magnet, so we have lots to look forward to and be grateful for.

 

I pray to God that her journey along with so many other children who have high hopes will be rewarding as they progress academically/behaviorally/socially.

They will learn things that we never new possible, some good and some bad – just a part of learning. They will discover great things that they’ve never learned before, make new friends, have to learn to make adjustments, learn that not all students/teachers are alike, meet academic challenges, and so much more.

 

As parents, our job is to ensure that our children have the tools needed to “jump start” their school day. This for us entails all of their needs such as breakfast, school supplies, academic/behavioral supports, listening to their stories, helping them sort out issues with other children, morning “pep talks” and lots of love.

 

As teachers, I can only hope that highly qualified and competent professionals cross their paths — Teachers who are organized, efficacious (those who are called to the duty and believe that they can and will make a positive difference in the lives of ALL children), timely, contentious, understanding, caring, firm but fair, and by all means nurturing (when needed).

 

Finally, but not at all suggested as not being the most important – Safe and secure schools.

 

It is my prayer that parents and school officials work hand-in-hand with the center of the child in mind putting their differences, emotions aside (if there’ll be any), but focusing on the one topic that is truly important – the child.

 

In my effort to do my part as a parent, here is what I’ve done:

 

I have personally assessed what I believe my child is missing from her school nights/mornings, and implemented a schedule because I’ve noticed for some time now that her organizational and self-initiative skills aren’t the best. I’d love to see her initiate her homework and pick up after herself without being prompted.

 

[image error]I introduced the new schedule to her the fourth evening after school. The morning schedule puts her on track from the moment her little feet hits the floor, and the evening schedule is spelled out to assist with things that she can do once she enters our home after school.

I was pleasantly surprised at how well my daughter accepted the challenge. She was excited about having me laminate the schedules, and post them on our refrigerator door.

The next morning, I kept quiet and observed my daughter following the morning schedule. It almost looked as if it were a game to her. She put check marks next to each entry that she’d completed.

 

I can’t tell you how exceedingly happy I was to see her in action.

 

Parents and teachers, we can work together and do our part individually and collectively as we make the new school year a great success for children.

 

Photos: Courtesy of Cherrye S. Vasquez