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There were lots of excited smiles and only a few tears at Rocky Mountain Elementary as the kindergarten students started their first day of school. When parents brought their young students to school, the PTA was on hand with "Kookies and Kleenex" to help parents and children with this time of transition.
"This is such a rite of passage for both the kids and the parents; it's such a big step in their lives," said Andrea Motto, PTA president. She explained that the Kookies and Kleenex, an informal gathering held outside the kindergarten doors, gives parents an opportunity to learn about the many programs and plans supported by the PTA, to meet other parents and ask questions to PTA and school representatives.
Principal David Turner, the instigator of the Kookies and Kleenex program, was also on hand to greet parents. He became acquainted with this unique gathering for parents of kindergartners while teaching at Barratt Elementary in American Fork. He liked the idea and asked the PTA to hold a similar gathering for kindergarten parents at Rocky Mountain Elementary. The program is now in its third year.
The parents enjoyed the time to mingle with other parents and take a breather after sending their children off to their first day of school. Joelle and Eli Whittle made bringing their daughter, Kiah, to school a family affair. A smile on her face, Kiah walked confidently into her new classroom.
"She's excited to be in there," said Joelle Whittle.
Cori Simmons spent a few moments taking photos of her daughter, Savannah, before sending her off to class. When asked if she was excited to start school, Savannah shyly gave a big smile.
Her older brother, Bo, an experienced student in the fifth grade, shared a bit of advice with her sister. "Listen to the teacher, and don't take coloring books," he said.
School can be an exciting adventure of learning for all children. Parents have a vital role in helping their child keep their love of learning alive and to become successful in school and in life. See the accompanying sidebar for a baker's dozen of tips to help your child have a successful school year.
Sidebar
Help your child be successful in school
• Encourage your child to read. Read aloud to your baby right from the start and make reading a part of your daily special time together. Read and write together as a family
• Set goals for your child. Set short-term and long-term goals for the year.
• Keep informed. Check your child's progress online with Power School.
• Communicate with your child. Talk about school every day. When your child knows that you think school is important, he will take it more seriously.
• Praise your child. Praise the work that your children bring home and recognize their efforts.
• Set limits on TV viewing, time on the computer, and video gaming.
• Help your child learn responsibility. Be prepared each day. Responsibility is learned by small things, such as being on time and remembering their back pack.
• Communicate with your child's teacher. Keep the lines between home and school open. Contact the teacher if you notice a change in your child's behavior or study habits.
• Learn about your child's school. Read the school handbook and visit the school's website. Attend school events. If possible, volunteer in your child's school.
• Encourage healthy habits. Research shows that a regular bed time, good eating habits, and physical exercise are essential for school success.
• Monitor homework. Have a regular time and a quiet place for your child to do homework, and check to see if she needs help.
• Teach your child the importance of hard work. Teach them if you want to learn something new, it takes effort and practice.
• Be positive! Remember that students, teachers, and parents together make a powerful team.
Sources: Renae Reese, kindergarten teacher; US Dept. of Education. |
