How to make 2022 a happy and successful school year

For many children and their parents, returning to school is a joyful occasion, but for some, the new school year brings with it a large dose of anxiety. These useful tips will advise you on how to make the new school year a success.

• Monitor your child's progress

As a parent, you will always want and provide the best for your children, particularly when it comes to their education. Even if your children attend some of the best schools in the Upper Highway region, such as Hillcrest Primary School, Kloof High School, St Mary's Diocesan School for Girls, Thomas More College, Highbury Preparatory School, or Forest Hills, it's still important to keep track of their educational development. This will ensure that they are capable of dealing with life and are well equipped to prosper in the future.

• Communication with teachers

One of the most common issues parents have while tracking their children's academic progress is a lack of collaboration with their child's teacher. Inquire about your child's performance at school meetings. Teachers will be able to tell you about your child's weak spots, and what you can do at home to help them improve.

You can never thank a teacher enough for caring for and educating your child. Your concern for your child's growth is undeniably comparable to that of their instructor. As a result, communicate with the teachers as much as possible.

• Create homework schedules

If your child is having trouble with homework, you should create a homework schedule with their involvement. Schedules aid in preventing procrastination and help children learn healthy habits such as finishing tasks on time. 

Once you've established a homework plan, there will be no doubt about when the work will be completed. It also establishes clear expectations and assists children in comprehending what is expected of them.

Design Cap or My Homework are great apps to help you create the perfect schedule for your rising star.

• Screen time rules

Too much screen time is an easy trap to fall into, and it may keep children from focusing on more essential things. Screen usage may eat up time that could be better spent sleeping, reading, doing homework, or engaging in physical play.

You may set regular time restrictions for how much time you spend using cellphones, computers, iPads, and watching TV. The majority of parents, of course, think that restricting screen time is a good idea. The difficult thing is making it happen.

• After school activities

Many children come home exhausted after a long school day. Apart from assisting your child with homework, there are other after-school activities that you can engage in with your child to help them relax and wind down after a long day at school. Going for a stroll, exercising, playing games, or even engaging in enjoyable educational activities are great options. This is also a fantastic opportunity for you to learn more about your child's interests.

• For parents and children starting their schooling career

For both you and your child, starting Pre-Grade R or Grade R is a significant milestone. Change may bring a slew of emotions and thoughts to children as young as three, four, and five years old. Some children are better at accepting and enjoying the change, while others may require more attention during the first few days and weeks of school.

Here are a few easy tips to help you start the new year off right:

• Before the first day, go to the school or classroom.
• Read good books or articles on starting school on the internet.
• Discuss your child's thoughts about school, friends, teachers, and new activities.
• Practice how to get ready each morning for the school trip.
• Rehearse self-help skills such as dressing, undressing, and hand-washing.
• Inquire about the type of food your child would want to take to school.
• Get excited about going school shopping.

If you are looking for a home near one of the best schools in the Upper Highway area, contact Seeff Hillcrest & Kloof today. Our agents are area specialists who are ready to assist you in finding the perfect home for your family.