The stores are full of school supplies, kids and parents are getting anxious, and teachers are already preparing their rooms. It’s definitely time for back to school!
As a teacher, I love this time of year! It’s the start of something new and the opportunities are endless. But it can also be stressful, especially when life is so busy! Here are three tips to start the school year off right that take the least amount of time and offer the most “bang for your buck.”
1. Get Connected
I am teaching at a new school this year and the district really has an emphasis on technology and using it efficiently as a communication tool. (Yes, I now have a Twitter account.) Many schools today have Facebook pages, Twitter feeds, and teacher web pages. This helps to easily provide information to parents and students. Find out if your child’s school uses any of these forms of communication and check them often for important updates.
I also like to know at the beginning of the year if I can text a parent. This is an easy way to send quick messages that really don’t require much time from the parent or the teacher. But it doesn’t take the place of the phone completely. Sometimes there are things you need to talk about that texting can’t take the place of. Getting connected is really all about staying in contact with your child’s teacher and participating in their education as much as possible in our ever-busy modern world.
2. Get Organized
I only have one child and I still have trouble keeping up with all the activities, events, and appointments. I keep a calendar (an old-fashioned paper one). I check the school calendar and put all of the important dates in my paper one. This helps me coordinate my husband’s schedule, Caroline’s schedule, and mine all in one place. My calendar shows me the whole month at a time, so I can plan for things that need to be added or pencil in that quick weekend getaway with the girls.
3. Get Healthy
This time of year is perfect to start new habits. I always buy a new lunch box and start thinking about healthy ways to take my lunch. I also start thinking about when exercise can happen in my busy work schedule. Even though I am an elementary teacher and spend most of my days moving around, I still need to get some cardio in. When the school year begins, I make sure I have a plan for accomplishing my exercise goals.
Involve your kids as well. Ask them what they might like to try for lunches this year. Plan to include a few new fruits or veggies. If they do not currently participate in a sport or fitness routine, make sure they have some ideas in place for staying active. According to their age, schedule some activities together or allow them to sign up for a new sport or class. I think I may take golf lessons this year!
