Motivation For Your Child

As we wrap up the holidays and enter the new year it is important that we as parents prepare our children to return to school and ensure that they get off to a good start. Here are some tips to assist your child and hopefully increase their engagement and participation.

1 – Help your child establish and stick to a routine.
Even though school is virtual, treat school days just like you would if your child was attending school in person. Have them get up at the same time everyday, get properly dressed, and eat a healthy breakfast.

2 – Check in with your child’s advisor or teachers.
Teachers and advisors are usually more than willing to connect with parents via email or phone after school hours. Check-in if your child is having difficulty managing the online learning platform or staying on task. Be on the lookout for any communications from teachers indicating that they are having trouble connecting with your child during this time.

3 – Encourage physical activity and exercise.
Your child will be sitting in front of their computer for long periods of time. Encourage them to use the breaks in the day to stretch, go for a walk, or do jumping jacks — any movement helps!

4 – Resist the urge to sit in on classes with your child.
While it may certainly be tempting to observe your child’s classes, please respect their privacy and that of other students. Connect with faculty and staff through email or other communication channels before or after school hours.

5 – Take care of yourself.
This one is extra important, and we hear it often, but take care of yourself. If you’re not taking care of your own physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs, you will have less energy, space, and patience to connect with and take care of your children.
Even 10-15 minutes of scheduled “me” time during the day is beneficial.
Hopefully, these tips help you and your child as they return to school. Continue to follow and support the Yunion as we live out our mission of “Loving Youth & Uniting Families”