You may not like to hear this, but the start of school is almost here. Woo! For some of your kids, this might bring a sense of excitement, but for others, this might cause a little anxiety. No matter what your child feels, I assure you that an amazing first day and first week of school can be accomplished! I have been a teacher for nearly two decades and a principal for one decade. Two of my kiddos graduated from ECHS, and we have a 7th grader bringing up the rear. I know a little about first-day jitters and have ten tips to help your child start on the right foot and have a successful school year. Doing these things may not get them on the honor roll or a starting spot on the basketball team, but they can make school a bit smoother so your child can better embrace a biblical worldview. Consider discussing the list below with your child and let me know if there is anything else I can do to help.
1. Eat breakfast. Breakfast helps replenish the blood sugar your child's brain needs to function at its best. On top of that, no one wants a hangry kid at school!
2. Ask questions. Asking questions leads to solving problems, building relationships, and gaining knowledge. Smart people ask questions.
3. Constantly pray. Don't just pray before a meal or bedtime; make it a lifestyle. It's easy to get stressed out and complain. Spend that time in God's word and pray instead.
4. Get your sleep. We should work heartily for the Lord, but working 24/7 isn't an option. Getting your rest will help you be better focused and think more clearly.
5. Label your stuff. Consider putting your name on your water bottle, lunchbox, and other items you want to keep. Your new jacket is much more likely to be returned to you if your name is on it.
6. Try something new. We provide numerous activities for you to know what you're gifted in. Join that club or sport, participate in a service project or trip, or run for office. Just do it.
7. Be kind and polite. You don't need to be a Christian to know that being an arrogant jerk isn't cool. Smiling, helping others, and showing appreciation can go a long way.
8. Maximize your class time. Why bring work home when you have teachers at school who can help you with it? Take advantage of the time and resources God has given you at ECS.
9. Set out your clothes and pack your backpack the night before school. Mornings can be chaotic so minimize the chaos by planning ahead. You might need every minute before the morning rush!
10. Share with your family what you're learning and what homework you have. Although I can help my kiddos with their schoolwork, sometimes they teach me a thing or two. God wants us to use our brains to draw each other towards Christ.
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
