Encouraging Success for your Children

* If your child misbehaves, focus on the behavior and not the child. Be sure your child understands that you love and accept them, but don't approve of the behavior.
* Praise children’s efforts honestly and sincerely with specific comments rather than just general ones such as “Great job!” Instead say, “I like the way you helped me get everything ready for our picnic,” “I know you really worked hard on your art project.”
*Let your child know you value his or her individuality. “I love you just the way you are.”
* Help children explore opportunities to find out who they are, rather than persuading them to be who you think they should be.
* Let children do things for themselves that they are capable of doing safely, such as helping you to prepare a meal, folding laundry, and washing the car (even if you can do these things faster and better).
* Listen to your children and be supportive of their ideas and concerns.
* Be a positive model for your kids by valuing your self and being positive.
* Avoid comparing your child to other children. Each child is unique and should be valued for who they are.

New Year's Resolutions

As we begin a new calendar year, thoughts turn to changes that we can make to be better. As parents, there are several changes that you might want to consider to help your child be more successful in school.
DEVELOPING GOOD HOMEWORK AND STUDY HABITS
1. Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework. Your child needs a permanent workspace in his/her bedroom or another part of the home that offers privacy.
2. Set aside ample time for homework.
3. Establish a household rule that the TV stays off during homework time.
4. Be available to answer questions and offer assistance, but never do your child's homework for him.
5. Take steps to help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue and brain fatigue while studying. It may be helpful to close the books for a few minutes, stretch, and take a break periodically when it will not be too disruptive.
6. If your child is struggling with a particular subject, and you aren't able to help him yourself, be sure to contact your child’s teacher so that you can work together on solving the problem!