Getting A Head Start On The School Year (NAPSA)—Preparing your child for the new school year involves more than buying the latest fashions, supplies and high-tech gadgets. It also requires doing little “homework” before the term begins to make sure your child has the necessary math and reading skills and theself-confidence needed to master assignments and problem solve independently. Mary Mokris, Ph.D., of Kumon Math and Reading, suggests the following tips for a successful transition back to school. Praise your children daily. Let them know that you believe in them, you think they are special and you have confidence in them. Help them to break long-term goals into smaller goals that they can see themselves achieving. Let your children know that you recognize and value their efforts, not just their final accomplishments. Focus on the positives. Talk to your children about their summer. Reflect on the newskills they gained that are needed to be successful in life, such as independence, responsibility, perseverance and time management. This can be a good time to discuss how these skills will help them succeed in school. Set up a study area for your child. Create an area that is well ventilated and well lit. Be sure it’s equipped with all necessary supplies, such as a dictionary, a thesaurus, pens, paper, markers, scissors, etc. Keep the study area free of distractions, such as TV, stereo or telephone. Establish a_ consistent homework routine from the start. Schedule daily homework times so they become a part of Experts say enrolling your child in an after-school enrichment program can give him or her the extra help needed to master math and reading skills. your family’s routine. This also helps children to see that homeworkis a priority in your home. Get acquainted with your child’s teachers and keep the communication open. Discuss goal setting with both your child and the teacher. This parentteacher-child partnership will be instrumental in the development of healthy homework habits, which will in turn help children have a successful school year. Enroll your child in an afterschool enrichment program. Give your child the extra help needed to brush up and excel in math and readingskills. Experts say programs such as Kumon can help children build confidence and gain the skills needed to advance in their gradelevel. Since 1958, Kumon Math and Reading has helped children strengthen math and reading skills, increase self-confidence and develop studyskills. To learn more or to schedule a free placement test, contact 1-800ABC-MATHor visit www.kumon. com.
