Establishing effective habits and routines now makes getting a good start to the school year easy
Students of Westboro Academy are ready tol head back to class this fall. Photo Courtesy Westboro Academy
Setting priorities and creating a schedule at the beginning of the school year can help keep students organized, local educators say.
Establish a routine
Head of school at Westboro Academy Elyane Ruel says that setting up a good homework routine along with making time for sports, other activities and family helps to keep a balance, which, along with “staying flexible,” are “equally important.”
Elyane Ruel. Photo Courtesy Westboro Academy
Open the doors of communication
“Good communication with your child’s teachers from the beginning of the year also sets the stage for success,” says Ruel. “At Westboro, we work to build that strong foundation from the very start. This ensures parents and teachers stay informed about what the student is doing in class and can recognize when extra support might be needed.”
Choose extracurriculars wisely
While understanding that parents want what’s best for their children, Ruel warns caregivers not to go overboard. Instead, she suggests being thoughtful about how much gets added to children’s schedules. She highlights that while extracurriculars are valuable, it often takes time to settle into something new.
Don’t be afraid to reevaluate periodically
“Many students start out excited, but their interests can change,” Ruel says about extracurricular activities.
“Having clear conversations early on about what trying a new activity involves — and when it is worth persevering and when it might be OK to switch gears — can make the experience smoother for everyone.”
Westboro Academy provides supportive information for parents, and the school encourages play dates with new and old friends after school to keep students happy and balanced.
Schedule a lighter load over the summer
“Over the summer, students’ learning often looks different — it’s more relaxed and experiential,” says Ruel. “I find that engaging students in more academic ways, such as reading a chapter book together, visiting a museum or solving puzzles before school starts can help reawaken their curiosity and prepare them to transition back into more structured learning.”
Allow children to have input
“Start as you mean to go on” is one of my favourite sayings,” says Kate Wigston, junior principal of Grades 6 to 8 at St-Laurent Academy.
“With this in mind, new beginnings can be the perfect time to create good habits in all areas.” Wigston says that having a plan that the students are involved in making is a key component to success.
“When students are a part of the plan – including any rewards or consequences – they are much more likely to adhere to it,” Wigston says.
She adds that having SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely) goals also supports success, and can help in developing good study habits.
It’s important to find a system that works for both the student and the family, says Wigston, and to recognize that one size doesn’t fit all – even within the same family.
As for methods for noting key dates and assignments, the options are as varied as the users themselves. “Whether it’s a digital checklist or a traditional paper agenda,” Wigston says “the best system is one that is used.” Ideally, she adds, “it’s one that the student can continue to grow with over their academic years.”
In her role, Wigston is well aware that these are the school years where many students make habits that can last a lifetime, so getting the right balance at this time is important.
Don’t compare children to others
Wigston points out that balance between schoolwork and other activities is crucial. “This is very individual for every student,” says Wigston. “And it has to be based on their interests, needs and energy levels. Some students will thrive on a packed schedule; others will need time to relax and rejuvenate. Parents need to know what works best for their child.”
Maintain a healthy balance
Balance is also something that’s kept in mind during the planning process at St- Laurent Academy. “We work hard in our curriculum planning to ensure that the majority of schoolwork is done during class time in school,” says Wigston.
Wigston says they understand how busy families are, how valuable family time is and why outside class activities are key to healthy habits for successful learning.
“To keep that balance, we now offer extracurricular clubs at school,” says Wigston. “Students can complete their school days, as well as their extracurricular activities before heading home. It’s a win for everyone.”
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