Article: School Tips

School has started back again, and whether your child is going for the first time or returning for another year, you can give them a strong start to the new year. The American Academy of Pediatrics and several other experts suggest several things to help your child succeed.

Breakfast and Lunch

Nutritious Breakfast

A nutritious breakfast can help with both energy and focus. IF your school does not provide breakfast, providing your child with a breakfast that contains at least some protein can be incredibly beneficial.

Avoid Sodas

Whether in the morning or packed with their lunch, avoiding soda can reduce your child's risk of child obesity by as much as 60%. For reference the average soda has roughly 10 teaspoons of sugar.

Vending Machine

Many schools also offer vending machines, food carts, or food at school stores. All food served during the school day must meet USDA nutrition standards, and stock healthy options like fresh fruit, low-fat dairy products and fruit juice.

Bringing Lunch

In general, schools will provide a menu of the month or year's lunch menu options. If your child does not like a particular option on the menu, consider preparing a packed lunch they are more likely to eat, to provide them adequate nutrition for the day ahead.

After School

Early to Middle Childhood

Children in early to middle childhood should have adult supervision. A responsible adult should help them get ready in the morning as well as watching them after school.

Older Children

Older children, 10-12, should not generally come home to an empty house unless particularly mature. If adult supervision is not available, they should check in with a neighbor or by phone to a parent/guardian when arriving home.

After School

If you choose an after-school program for your child, inquire about the training of the staff. There should be a high staff-to-child ratio, trained persons to address health issues and emergencies, and the rooms and the playground should be safe

Homework

Environment

An enviroment conductive to studying, even at a young age, is important for learning and homework. Whether it is a quiet place in their bedroom or another place in the house, free from distractions, the quite can promote study

Supervise Internet

Internet, television and screen time should be supervised, especially with children of a younger age.

Schedule Ample Time

Ample time, each day, should be scheduled for homework. During this time TV and other electronic distractions should stay off during this time.

Be Available

Be available to your child to answer questions, but do not do their homework.

Sleep

Consistent bedtime

Getting enough sleep is critical for a child's learning and focus. Having a consistent bed time and routine can aid in a child's ability to get to bed and fall asleep at a normal time.

Turn off all electronics

Have your child turn off electronics well before bedtime.

Getting Enough Sleep

Insufficient sleep is associated with lower academic achievement in middle school, high school and college, as well as higher rates of absenteeism and tardiness. The optimal amount of sleep for most younger children is 10-12 hours per night and for adolescents (13-18 year of age) is in the range of 8-10 hours per night.