As 2021 winds to a close, students are eager for winter break and a chance to relax. Knock out preparation for the return to school at the start of vacation so students can enjoy their time off and head back to class ready to learn. Since they have been back to school in-person for a few months, it can be easier to know what to expect and how to prepare for the rest of the year.

Here are a few tips to get you started:

  • Reflect on what did and did not work.

Create two separate lists of strategies that were effective and those that were not. Make plans to stick with the ones that worked, perhaps fine-tuning them a bit. For areas where your child struggled, brainstorm together things that they could do differently. For instance, if they had trouble getting out the door in the morning, decide what some causes were and how to change them.

Things to try could include waking up a few minutes earlier (and going to bed earlier!), packing their lunch the night before, laying out their clothes ahead of time, or making mornings a screen-free time for fewer distractions.

  • Get organized.

It’s time to dump out their bookbag, get rid of any unnecessary materials, sort and file loose papers, stock up on sharpened pencils and new erasers, and make sure everything is in its place. The same goes for their desk or workspace. Buy some bins to keep materials organized so they are easier to find.

  • Create balance.

Was the fall a frenzy of activity trying to be everywhere and do everything? Did some projects or assignments get pushed to the last minute? Sit down together and create a schedule that includes academics, extracurriculars, and family time. If your child is involved in too many activities, consider prioritizing and putting some on hold.

Breaking the day down into manageable blocks, such as time for homework/studying, practicing an instrument/sport, dinner, free time, and screen time can help with time management and reduce stress. You don’t have to plan every minute of the day, but knowing what needs to be done can keep your child from feeling too overwhelmed.

  • Set goals.

As part of reflecting, guide your child in deciding what they want to accomplish in the remainder of the school year. Do they want to maintain a certain grade or improve their score by a certain amount? Read at least 2 (non-school) books a month? Review their notes for 10 minutes every day?

Help them set goals that are meaningful to them and that they want to accomplish, not necessarily what you think they should do. You can give suggestions, but if it is not something they’re interested in, they’ll be less likely to commit. Make sure their goals are realistic and attainable, so they do not become too discouraged.

  • Be proactive.

Were your child’s grades starting to slip in a particular subject? Is the coursework becoming more challenging as new topics are introduced? Are they having trouble staying organized or figuring out how to effectively study? Get them set up with a personalized tutoring program now before they fall further behind. Tutoring can be a great way to boost their skills, improve understanding, and get the second half of the year off to a stronger start.

Contact Crafting Scholars to learn more about available programs and how we can support your child’s success.