Setting the Tone

The schoolyear is underway and I thought I’d take a moment to check in. Are you hitting your stride? Have there been bumps along the path of this adjustment period? With each grade comes new expectations, coursework and, typically, a fresh set of faces standing at the front of the room. More than anything, our goal as parents is to support our children, both at home and through forming strong partnerships with our child’s educators. How we receive feedback during those early weeks, be it academic or behavioral, sets the tone for the year. Make space for communication that’s positive and proactive, and collectively call upon resources that address foundational concerns. This will help our students thrive in their new learning environment.

Even before parent-teacher conferences, you may hear from your child’s teacher. You may make introductions alongside a discussion on any learning gaps or behavioral patterns that may carry over from the prior year.  The classroom environment is a complex dynamic that comes through in reporting beyond letter grades. Group dynamics and social skills, as well as conduct and the ability to follow the rules of the classroom are typically included in each check point. 

Your child’s teacher will be looking at how they grow both academically as well as socially. Concerns like time management, holding attention during lessons and even navigating group work may arise. Learning challenges like dyslexia may emerge. Listen without defensiveness, as educators share in a common goal for your child to succeed.

As children age, the dynamic within an educational environment shifts and provides an opportunity for them to further explore their world with independence and curiosity.  When challenges arise, be it academic or interpersonal, the relationship with their instructors provides the foundation for self-advocacy. The opportunity to ask for help, for clarification or even guidance in sharpening critical executive functioning skills often starts in the classroom as a bridge to the world of adulthood.