Another school year is back in session, but parents aren't the only ones trying to broker a successful transition for their families. Some of the residents at our Springs luxury apartment communities are students themselves, continuing or resuming their pursuit of higher education.
No matter which side you're on, we have some great tips to help you make this school year the best one yet.
Parents of Students
- Establish a daily routine. Summer vacation is full of late nights and spur-of-the-moment activities. Creating a schedule for wake-up, after-school homework and chores, and bedtime puts a period on the summer and sets the tone for efficiency and organization.
- Limit tech time. TV is no longer the only distraction for kids trying to dodge homework. Computers, cell phones and video games provide multiple temptations that threaten study time. Decide how much time kids can spend on digital entertainment, and make completed homework a prerequisite.
- Instill the habit of pre-planning. How does your day go when it starts off with a frantic scramble to dress, grab something to eat and find the car keys before dashing off to work? It affects kids even more. Teach them to get everything ready the night before, and the habit will carry on through their adulthood.
- Show interest and support. Don't just pay lip service to the importance of education. Take time to ask your kids about school, what's going well and what isn't, and encourage them to ask for help if they're having difficulties.
Adult Students
- Set up a dedicated study area. It's easier to focus when you have a space that is devoted exclusively to studies. It doesn't have to be an entire room: even the corner of a table can work as long as you refrain from other activities there.
- Plan healthy meals and snacks. Nutrition isn't just for kids. You can't operate at a high level if you're hungry or stuffing yourself with junk food. Spend some time assembling a stockpile of nutritious grab-and-go meals and snacks that are ready when you are.
- Prioritize assignments. As an adult with responsibilities, you don't have the luxury of time that kids do. Organize your homework assignments based on importance and difficulty so you can plan the high-priority ones to do when you have blocks of uninterrupted time.
- Be flexible. While this may sound contrary, the reality is that life doesn't always follow our best plans. If your day is so regimented that the slightest deviation throws it into disarray, the ripple effect can disrupt your whole household's equilibrium. Leave enough wiggle room to roll with the punches.
What did (or do you) look forward to most during the school year? Share your answer in the comments!
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