Establishing good communication and clear expectations between families and teachers at the beginning of the school year is crucial for supporting a child’s academic success. Here are some tips for parents/caregivers:

1. Introduce Yourself Early

• Reach Out: At the start of the school year, send an introductory email or note to your child’s teacher. Introduce yourself, share any important information about your child, and express your desire to work together.
• Meet in Person: If possible, attend the school’s open house or schedule a brief meeting with the teacher to establish a personal connection.

2. Be Clear About Communication Preferences

• Preferred Methods: Discuss and agree on the best way to communicate, whether it’s via email, phone, or a communication app.
• Availability: Share your availability and ask about the teacher’s preferred times for contact to avoid disruptions during their busy schedule.

3. Set Expectations for Homework and Classwork

• Clarify Homework Policies: Understand the teacher’s expectations for homework, including how much time your child should spend on it and how you can assist.
• Discuss Academic Goals: Ask about the curriculum and the teacher’s academic goals for the year, so you can support your child at home.

4. Stay Informed

• Regular Updates: Request information on how you’ll be kept informed about your child’s progress, including report cards, progress reports, and parent-teacher conferences.
• Classroom Involvement: Ask if there are opportunities to volunteer or participate in class activities, and how you can stay engaged with what’s happening in the classroom.

5. Be Proactive with Concerns

• Early Intervention: If you notice any issues, whether academic or behavioral, bring them to the teacher’s attention sooner rather than later so that solutions can be developed together.
• Collaborative Approach: Approach concerns with a problem-solving mindset and be open to the teacher’s perspective and expertise.

6. Support at Home

• Consistent Routines: Establish consistent homework and study routines at home that align with the teacher’s expectations.
• Encourage Responsibility: Foster independence in your child by encouraging them to take responsibility for their assignments and school materials.

7. Keep the Lines Open

• Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins with the teacher, even if things are going well, to maintain open communication.
• Positive Reinforcement: Share positive feedback with the teacher when things are going well, not just when there are problems.

8. Respect Teacher’s Time and Expertise

• Be Considerate. Teachers have many students to manage, so be concise and respectful in your communications.
• Trust Their Expertise: Respect the teacher’s professional judgment and collaborate with them as a partner in your child’s education.

By following these tips, families can establish a strong foundation for communication and collaboration with teachers, setting the stage for a successful school year for your child.

Interested in other resources for open communication at school?

• Check out this tool from the Pediatric Heart Network.
• A great resource from CTA’s School Quality Guide.

As summer winds down and the school year approaches, many parents find themselves navigating a variety of challenges. From easing back-to-school anxiety to balancing screen time and outdoor play, there’s much to consider. Here, we provide strategies to make this transition smoother and offer recommendations for educational apps and websites that can enhance your child’s learning experience.

Easing Back-to-School Anxiety

Returning to school can be stressful for children. Here are some strategies to help ease their anxiety:

1. Open Communication: Encourage your child to express their feelings about going back to school. Listen actively and validate their concerns.
2. Routine Reestablishment: Start reestablishing school routines a few weeks before school begins. This includes regular bedtimes, wake-up times, and meal schedules.
3. Visit the School: If possible, visit the school before it starts. Familiarize your child with their classroom, playground, and any other important locations.
4. Meet the Teacher: Arrange a meeting with your child’s teacher. A friendly introduction can help your child feel more comfortable.
5. Positive Reinforcement: Focus on the positive aspects of school, such as seeing friends, learning new things, and participating in fun activities.

Balancing Screen Time and Outdoor Play

With the increase in digital learning, balancing screen time and outdoor play is crucial for a child’s well-being. Here are some tips:

1. Set Clear Limits: Establish specific times for screen use and stick to them. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than one hour per day for children aged 2 to 5 and consistent limits for older children.
2. Encourage Outdoor Activities: Make outdoor play a priority. Activities like biking, hiking, and playing sports help children stay active and healthy.
3. Create a Schedule: Plan daily schedules that include designated times for both screen use and outdoor activities. Balance is key.
4. Lead by Example: Model healthy habits by limiting your own screen time and engaging in outdoor activities as a family.
5. Interactive Screen Time: When screen time is allowed, encourage interactive and educational content rather than passive consumption.

Educational Apps and Websites for Kids

Incorporating technology into education can be beneficial when used wisely. Here are some top educational apps and websites for kids:

1. Khan Academy: This free resource offers a wide range of subjects, from math to science to history, with engaging videos and practice exercises for all ages.
2. ABCmouse: Ideal for younger children, this app offers a comprehensive early learning curriculum that includes reading, math, science, and art.
3. Duolingo: A fun and interactive way for kids to learn new languages. The app offers bite-sized lessons in a variety of languages.
4. Prodigy: This math-based game turns learning into an adventure, motivating kids to improve their math skills while having fun.
5. National Geographic Kids: This website offers educational games, videos, and articles about animals, science, and the world, making learning fun and engaging.

Conclusion

Navigating the back-to-school season can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can help your child ease into the new school year with confidence. Balancing screen time and outdoor play is essential for their overall health, and utilizing educational apps and websites can enhance their learning experience. Remember, the key to successful parenting and education lies in creating a supportive, balanced, and engaging environment for your child.

Every summer, parents face a common challenge: the “summer slide,” a phenomenon where students lose some of the academic gains they made during the previous school year. However, with strategic planning and engaging activities, parents can help their children continue to learn and even thrive during the summer break.

Understanding the Summer Slide

The summer slide typically affects skills in reading and math, where the lack of practice makes previously learned material harder to recall. Studies show that a student can lose up to two months of reading and mathematical computational skills over the summer. This setback can create a cumulative effect year over year, impacting long-term academic performance.

Strategies to Prevent the Summer Slide

1. Set a Routine: Maintaining a consistent daily schedule that includes time for learning can help children stay on track. This doesn’t need to be rigorous but should balance educational activities with plenty of time for play and relaxation.

2. Encourage Reading: Reading is one of the most effective ways to prevent the summer slide. Enroll children in the Cleveland Public Library or Cuyahoga County Public Library Summer Reading Program, or set a family reading time. Let your child choose books that interest them to foster a love of reading.

3. Utilize Educational Technology: Numerous educational apps and websites can make learning fun and interactive. These tools often include subjects like math, science, and language arts and are designed to engage children through games and challenges.

4. Engage in Real-World Learning: Summer is the perfect time for experiential learning. Trips to museums, parks, and historical sites offer opportunities to explore new ideas and information in a real-world setting. Even cooking or shopping can be turned into practical math lessons.

5. Write and Create: Encourage your child to keep a summer journal, write letters to family members, or create stories. Writing improves literacy skills and allows children to express their creativity.

6. Connect with Educational Programs: Consider registering for summer camps and classes that focus on everything from coding to art. These programs can provide structured learning opportunities and the chance to socialize with peers.

7. Review and Prepare: Spend some time reviewing material from the last school year and preparing for the upcoming one. This can include tutoring sessions or informal lessons at home.

By integrating learning activities into the relaxed summer months, parents can help their children avoid the summer slide and enter the new school year with confidence. Not only does this approach help maintain academic skills, but it also encourages a lifelong love of learning that goes beyond the classroom.

Navigating school transitions, such as moving from elementary to middle school, middle to high school, or entering college, can be a significant and sometimes challenging experience for students. Here are some strategies to make these transitions smoother and more successful:

1. Visit the New School Beforehand

• Take advantage of orientation days or arrange a visit to explore the new school. Familiarizing yourself with the layout, classrooms, and facilities can reduce anxiety and increase comfort on the first day.

2. Connect with Peers and Teachers

• Try to meet classmates and teachers ahead of time, if possible. Engage in school-sponsored activities or social media groups to connect with future classmates.
• Establishing a rapport with teachers early on can also provide a support system within the school.

3. Stay Organized

• Transitioning often means handling a more challenging workload. Use planners, apps, or calendars to keep track of assignments, projects, and important dates.
• Develop a daily routine with dedicated study time, extracurricular activities, and relaxation.

4. Engage in Extracurricular Activities

• Participate in clubs, sports, or other activities that interest you. This is an excellent way to meet people with similar interests and can make the school environment feel more welcoming.

5. Seek Support When Needed

• Don’t hesitate to use school resources like counseling services, academic advisors, or tutoring if you feel overwhelmed.
• Open communication with parents, teachers, and friends about adjusting can provide additional support and advice.

6. Embrace New Challenges

• Be open to new experiences and opportunities. School transitions can be a time for personal growth and development. Try new things, and don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone.

7. Focus on Time Management

• Managing your time effectively becomes crucial with the increased workload and extracurricular opportunities. Prioritize tasks, avoid procrastination, and make time for breaks.

8. Maintain a Positive Attitude

• A positive mindset can significantly impact your transition experience. Focus on the opportunities ahead rather than dwelling on fears or uncertainties.

9. Set Personal Goals

• Setting academic and personal goals can provide direction and motivation. Reflect on what you want to achieve during this transition period and strategize how to accomplish these goals.

10. Practice Self-Care

• Transitions can be stressful. Ensure you’re taking care of your physical and mental health by getting enough sleep, eating well, and finding time to relax and enjoy hobbies.

Remember, it’s normal to feel nervous or overwhelmed during school transitions. With time, patience, and the right strategies, you can navigate these changes successfully and find new opportunities for growth and learning.

Kindergarten is a child’s first school experience. You want it to be pleasant – not last minute and chaotic. Your child needs to be comfortable with the school and the teacher. By registering your child for kindergarten now, you can be sure that:

• All the necessary paperwork is in: You have time to secure needed records, so there is no rush or problem in getting the essential information.
• The school is prepared: Schools plan in the Spring and need to know how many teachers to hire and how many supplies they will need.
• You know about school policies, special programs, activities, and services, allowing you to be prepared and ask questions.
• You can schedule a tour of the school you are interested in while the school is still in session.

If you need help considering the best options for your child, visit the Cleveland Transformation Alliance’s School Finder Tool to search by neighborhood, school focus, amenities, and special partnerships. Visit our friends at Starting-Point.org to download a complete toolkit for kindergarten registration.

There have been many influential black leaders in the field of education throughout history. Here are five notable figures:

1. Booker T. Washington (1856–1915):
   Washington was a prominent African American educator, author, and advisor to presidents. He was the founder of the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, a vocational and industrial training school for African Americans. Washington emphasized practical education and economic self-sufficiency for black individuals in the post-Civil War era.
2. Mary McLeod Bethune (1875–1955):
   Bethune was an educator, political leader, and civil rights activist. She founded Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida, which began as a small boarding school for black girls. Bethune was also a key figure in promoting educational opportunities for black women and served as an advisor on minority affairs to President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
3. W.E.B. Du Bois (1868–1963):
   Du Bois was a prominent African American sociologist, historian, civil rights activist, and co-founder of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Du Bois emphasized higher education and co-founded the Niagara Movement, which later contributed to the formation of the NAACP. He advocated for the “Talented Tenth” theory, promoting education for a select group of African Americans to become leaders and advocates for their communities.
4. Marian Wright Edelman (b. 1939):
   Edelman is an advocate for children’s rights and the founder of the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF). While her work is not exclusively in education, she has been a strong voice for improving educational opportunities and advocating for policies that benefit disadvantaged children. Edelman has worked tirelessly to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and education reform.
5. Johnnetta B. Cole (b. 1936):
   Cole is an anthropologist, educator, and the first African American female president of Spelman College, a historically black women’s liberal arts college. She has held various leadership roles in academia, including serving as the president of Bennett College. Cole has been a strong advocate for the importance of education, particularly in empowering African American women.

These leaders have made significant contributions to education and have played crucial roles in advancing opportunities for black individuals in the United States.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. emphasized the crucial role of education in the pursuit of justice, equality, and social progress. He believed that education was a powerful tool for breaking down barriers and overcoming systemic injustice. One of his famous quotes related to education is:

“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”

In this quote, Dr. King stresses the importance of not just acquiring knowledge but also developing critical thinking skills and cultivating strong moral character. He saw education as a means to empower individuals to challenge injustice and work towards creating a more just and equitable society. Dr. King believed that education played a central role in the fight against discrimination and inequality.

Dr. King was a strong advocate for public education. He believed in the power of education to bring about positive social change and to address issues of inequality and injustice. Dr. King saw education as a tool for empowerment, a means through which individuals could develop the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to society and work towards a more just and equal world.

Dr. King also recognized the importance of equal educational opportunities for all, regardless of race or socio-economic background. He was a vocal supporter of desegregating schools and ensuring that every child had access to a quality education. Dr. King’s advocacy for civil rights extended to the realm of education, and he fought against segregation and discrimination in schools as part of his broader struggle for racial equality and justice.

Let us all remember Dr. King’s focus on education as we celebrate him this week.

Taking care of yourself during the holidays is essential to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for self-care during the holiday season:

Set Realistic Expectations:
Understand that perfection is not achievable. Set realistic expectations for yourself and others, and don’t put too much pressure on creating a flawless holiday experience.

Maintain Healthy Habits:
Stick to your sleep schedule, eat balanced meals, and exercise regularly. These habits can positively impact your mood and energy levels.

Prioritize and Plan:
Make a list of priorities and focus on the most important tasks. Plan your schedule, including time for self-care, so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

Delegate Tasks:
Don’t hesitate to delegate responsibilities. Share tasks with family members or friends to lighten your load and create a sense of shared responsibility.

Take Breaks:
Allow yourself breaks to recharge. Whether it’s a short walk, a few minutes of deep breathing, or a moment of mindfulness, taking breaks can help manage stress.

Limit Screen Time:
Reduce time spent on social media or watching screens. Excessive screen time can contribute to stress, and taking a break from technology can be refreshing.

Practice Mindfulness:
Engage in mindfulness activities such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. These practices can help you stay present and reduce stress.

Learn to Say No:
It’s okay to decline invitations or additional commitments if you feel overwhelmed. Prioritize your well-being and be selective about how you spend your time.

Create Boundaries:
Set clear boundaries with family and friends to ensure your needs are respected. Communicate your limits, and don’t feel guilty about taking time for yourself.

Celebrate in Your Own Way:
Embrace traditions that bring you joy, and consider creating new ones that align with your values. Don’t feel obligated to conform to societal expectations if they don’t align with your preferences.

Connect with Loved Ones:
Spend quality time with loved ones. Share your feelings and experiences, and don’t hesitate to ask for support if needed. Connecting with others can provide emotional support.

Reflect and Express Gratitude:
Take a moment to reflect on the positive aspects of your life and express gratitude. This can help shift your focus from stressors to the things you appreciate.

Remember that self-care is a personal journey, and it’s important to prioritize activities that bring you comfort and joy. Listen to your needs and be kind to yourself during the holiday season.

Changing schools during K-12 education can have both positive and negative impacts on children, depending on the situation. It is essential to consider the reason for the change, the child’s adaptability, and the support provided by parents and educators.

The staff at the Cleveland Transformation Alliance is here to help support and guide parents/caregivers through this decision.

1. Academic Disruption: Moving to a new school can disrupt a child’s academic progress. Different schools may have different curricula, pacing, and teaching methods, making it challenging for a child to catch up or adjust quickly.
2. Social Adjustment: Changing schools may result in losing established friendships and the need to form new social connections. This can be particularly challenging for children who are introverted or find it difficult to make new friends.
3. Emotional Stress: Changing schools, including leaving familiar surroundings and adjusting to new routines and expectations, can be emotionally stressful for children. They may experience anxiety, sadness, or a sense of loss.
4. Loss of Continuity: Continuity in education is essential for effective learning. Frequent school changes can disrupt the continuity of a child’s educational experience, making it harder to build on previously learned knowledge and skills.
5. Identity and Self-Esteem: Children often identify with their school and peers, and changing schools can challenge their sense of identity and self-esteem. They may feel like outsiders in a new environment.
6. Educational Gaps: In some cases, school transfers can result in educational gaps, where essential topics or skills are missed or repeated. These gaps can affect a child’s long-term academic performance.
7. Behavioral Changes: The stress of changing schools may lead to changes in behavior, including withdrawal, acting out, or a decline in motivation and engagement.
8. Parental Stress: Frequent school changes can also be stressful for parents, as they must navigate the enrollment process, communicate with new teachers and school staff, and support their child through transitions.

It’s important to note that not all school changes have negative impacts. In some situations, changing schools can be beneficial. For example:

1. Improved Educational Opportunities: A school change may offer better educational opportunities, including access to specialized programs, advanced coursework, or extracurricular activities not available at the previous school.
2. Escape from a Negative Environment: Changing schools may be necessary if a child is experiencing bullying, harassment, or a hostile learning environment at their current school. In such cases, the move can lead to improved well-being.
3. Family Relocation: Families often change schools due to relocation, which may be beyond their control. In these cases, children can benefit from the experience of adapting to new environments and meeting people from new backgrounds.

To mitigate the potential negative impacts of changing schools, parents and educators can take several steps:

1. Open Communication: Maintain open and supportive communication with the child, allowing them to express their feelings and concerns.
2. Smooth Transitions: Work with the new school to facilitate a smooth transition, including sharing academic records and discussing the child’s needs and challenges.
3. Seek Support: If the child experiences significant difficulties adjusting to the new school, consider seeking support from counselors, teachers, or educational specialists.
4. Encourage Involvement: Encourage the child to get involved in extracurricular activities and clubs to help them build new social connections.
5. Monitor Progress: Monitor the child’s academic progress and well-being to address any emerging issues promptly.

Ultimately, while changing schools can be challenging, it is not inherently negative. With appropriate support and a positive approach, children can adapt successfully to new educational environments and thrive academically and socially.  CTA is here to help families navigate this decision. Numerous organizations operating in Cleveland can help families address issues that might push families to consider switching schools. We can also help families connect to those resources. Contact us for assistance.