Christina Miller/ Owner and Head of School
Millhopper Montessori School
For kids, summertime means fewer early mornings and more time for play. Even if children are enrolled in a summer camp or traveling, their routine is changed, allowing for a much-needed respite. During the summer, children become recharged.
I always look forward to a new school year. There is a visceral reaction to a new beginning, and those returning are eager to identify themselves as students in their new grade level. Children beginning school for the first time are heading into a brand-new territory full of anticipation and sometimes, separation anxiety. Even older students can feel anxious when entering a new class or a new school.
It’s time to get down to business!
Separating from parents can be very emotional for young children entering school for the first time. The change can be difficult for the parents, too. As youngsters tend to pick up on our emotional cues and follow by example, I have found that a quick and happy goodbye is the best plan, even if it requires an Oscar-winning performance.
Older students can also require a bit of encouragement as they experience the change of a new school year. Transitions from one school to another, escalating sports schedules and challenging course loads are just a few opportunities parents can capitalize on to instill the right mindset. Reassure your child that each day will get easier. They will.
The best preparation, regardless of whether or not it is a new experience, is to make sure students get enough sleep and have enough time for a relaxed and nutritious breakfast. We all know how difficult it is to concentrate and monitor our own behavior if we are sleep deprived or our blood sugar is low. Children, especially very young children, cannot reason through these experiences. They need our help and guidance to be set up for success.
Remember that routines are comforting to young children, and they help older learners gain autonomy. If a child spends part of his week with one parent and part with another, it is vital that both parents come to an agreement on routines regarding homework, bedtime and behavioral expectations. Children need to see their parents as a unified front, as well as their teachers and coaches.
Since class will soon be in session, it is advantageous to start the school routine early, if possible.
www.healthychildren.org is a good resource for back-to-school advice and for setting up good homework habits.
Here is wishing all of you a great and memorable school year!
I am the Owner/Head of School at the Millhopper Montessori School, LLC. MMS is an independent, for-profit Montessori school that I founded in 1977. MMS serves children from age two through middle school, is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and is affiliated with the American Montessori Society. MMS is proud to have second-generation families and employed alumni, as well as a strong collaboration of past and present families.
I am excited to be a contributing writer for Guide magazine and look forward to being a helpful and uplifting resource for families.
– Christina Miller