BACK TO SCHOOL TIPS

Teach your child how to set goals. Use the steps we have outlined to help your child decide what he or she would like to achieve this year. We have also included some helpful suggestions on how to become an involved parent. In this month's column, we hope to make your child's "First Years Last Forever."

Establish school goals with your child. Start by explaining some reasons for going to school.  For example, we attend school to learn letters and numbers, and play with other children.  Ask your child what he or she wants to do in school this year. 

Write down your child's goals.  Some attainable goals for preschoolers and kindergarteners would be "read a whole book by myself," "count to 20," or "make 10 baskets in a row."

Have your child draw a picture reminder of each goal.  With a paper and crayons, have your child sketch a book, a calendar, or a basketball hoop.  Post his or her drawings on the refrigerator so he or she can visualize goals.

Follow through on the established goals.  Take your child to the library to pick out books for beginning readers.  Practice counting on a calendar at home.  Have
your child shoot hoops in a child-size hoop at home or at your local community center or Boys & Girls Club.

Recognize achievements. When your child reaches a goal, you should congratulate him or her with a special dinner or let him call a favorite relative to share the news of his or her success.

Reevaluate goals.  Remind your child that learning never ends.  After your child meets a goal, it's time to set new ones.

Get involved at school as a parent.  Visit the classroom and become friendly with your child's teacher and classmates.  Offer to read or play learning games.  Learn what's new.  Read school newsletters and browse the school web site for the latest educational information.

Volunteer at school.  Sign up to bring supplies for a class party.  Join the PTA or PTO. Help out at school events such as book fairs, back-to-school nights and other celebrations.