The school year is in full swing now. Most kids, including my little kindergartener, are starting to get used to the routines, and are still pretty excited to head to school in the morning. In order to keep the excitement up, I have a few tips on how to have an awesome year. Even though Ayva just started her grade school journey, I taught for many years, so you’ll just have to trust me!

Know what’s going on at your child’s school.

Ayva’s school is fantastic about sharing information. Everything parents need to know is on their website, all of the teachers utilize email, and we receive a weekly newsletter. If your child’s school isnt’t as forthcoming with information, and it’s apparent to you, don’t wait until later in the year to speak up. Do something about it! It might be that you have to volunteer to connect with the teacher each week and send out an email to the other parents, or put time on your schedule to check-in with the principal once per month. Being informed will prevent a lot of stress for you and your child, and help you have a fantastic school year.

Create schedules and routines and stick to them.

People are always shocked when I tell them how early Ayva goes the bed. The thing is, she needs a lot of sleep, and so far, in the morning, we haven’t had any problems getting her up and dressed. Ayva doesn’t balk at her early bedtime because she gets a story, and a one-on-one time with Terrence every night, and she knows what to expect. If dinner is at 6, try to make it at 6 every night. Routines at home make the days easier at school for your little one.

Keep the learning going at home.

If your child comes home and is excited about something at school, keep the momentum going by exploring that subject at home. Just because summer is over, that doesn’t mean that you should stop going to the library, or taking field trips to museums on the weekend. If you can supplement the school learning with complementary lessons (for example, if your child does a lot on the computer at school, do something with paper and pencil at home), your child’s love of learning will continue to grow.

Be present when you’re present with your child.

Children who are confident and who feel loved typically do better at school. Now that your child is in school, you are spending less time with them than ever. Make sure you carve out intentional quality time with them after school. If you pick them up from school, consider turning the radio down and talking to them about their day. Once you get home, let them help you prepare dinner. If they get the attention they need from you, most times, they won’t feel the need act up for attention at school.

What are you and your family doing to make sure you have an awesome school year?