Counselor's Corner:
One way to ensure continued success for your child is to reinforce school rules at home. Studies show that children are more successful when the rules are consistent in all areas of their life (home, school, etc.). This consistency will make life easier (and more enjoyable) for kids, parents, and teachers!
Here are some strategies for getting your family plan aligned with school expectations, as well as some fun ways to practice these positive behaviors at home:
School Expectation: Be a Good Listener
How to practice at home: encourage him/her to listen intently when you or anyone else is speaking. 93% of communication is nonverbal, so give your child opportunities to practice active listening skills, like eye contact and head nods.
School Expectation: Sit with Feet on the Floor and Bottom in the Seat
How to practice at home: expect him/her to sit properly when dining. For older kids that require a rationale, explain that chairs are designed with intention: to support your back and other bones.
School Expectation: Keep Hands and Feet to Yourself
How to practice at home: model self-control and responsible calming strategies (deep breathing, taking a break from a situation, going for a refreshing walk). Correct him/her when they act impulsively and explain the rationale (“Sometimes when we touch other people we can hurt them or make them uncomfortable.”)
School Expectation: Wait your Turn
How to practice at home: point out people being respectful and waiting their turn. Give your child opportunities to wait – they will quickly learn they can survive a little delay!
School Expectation: Use Quiet Voices
How to practice at home: encourage your child to use quiet voices indoors and louder voices outside.
School Expectation: Be Respectful to Others
How to practice at home: insist on kind words and actions - have a “zero tolerance” policy for mean behavior. Model the behavior we want to see in our children. When you are out and about, point out situations where children are and are not being respectful to others - reflect with your child. Also, and most importantly, be respectful to your child - kids that feel good, do good.
While our instinct is sometimes to punish or reprimand when our children aren’t cooperating, consider coaching. Offer a “do over” to make a better choice, or simply sit down and intentionally make a plan for the next time so your child is coached and prepared.
If you need additional support developinga meaningful family management plan, please reach out: [email protected]
Kristen Hogan