With summer winding down and the start of the school year just around the corner, it's time to gear up and prepare for the upcoming academic year. The transition from leisurely months to a busy schedule filled with classes, labs, sports, clubs, and more is never easy for children. It’s even more challenging for parents who will be hunting for lost socks, finding materials for last-minute science projects, and juggling countless tasks until the next summer vacation.
What could go wrong, right?
While Mentor Match can't customize your day to make it smooth like butter, we can help put your child’s academic pressure and stress to rest with a few amazing tips.
But First, Let’s Talk About Academic Pressure
Fact: Today’s advanced world has set high expectations for both students and parents.
It’s no news that students face intense pressure to keep up with their academic responsibilities. The act of balancing day-to-day classes, extracurricular activities, homework and social life is not easy. Add to this the competitive nature of college admissions which automatically sets expectations for high grades and excellence in standardized tests, it can lead to stress, anxiety and eventually burnout.
In this scenario, what most people don’t outrightly talk about is parents going through this stress maze alongside their child. Parents often feel the pressure to support their children’s academic success, leading to increased involvement in their education and sometimes, undue stress about their children’s performance. They walk a fine line between physical and mental support, and excessive pressure.
In a nutshell, the academic environment takes a village.
P. S. Mentor Match is that village. With 1-on-1 personalized tutoring offering a flexible schedule to fit your family’s needs, Mentor Match can be yours and your child’s support system for academic growth and better grades.
Here are a Few Tips to Prepare for the Academic Year
Save this blog, write it down in your journal, set alarms or even put it up the refrigerator, but do try it out because it did wonders to several of Mentor Match’s parents.
1. Set Up a Routine
Summer often means late movie nights and lazy mornings, but school requires a structured schedule to ensure punctuality, improve productivity and of course, give a breather to both the parent and child.
Tips:
Gradual Adjustment: Begin by shifting bedtime 15 minutes earlier each night until you reach the desired time.
Time Allotment: Set specific period of times for the “must-do” activities like consuming meals, homework, projects, physical exercise and much more.
Consistent Schedule: Maintain the routine even on weekends to keep the body clock consistent.
2. Create a Study Space
A designated study space at home provides clarity and does wonders to your child’s focus and study habits. Find a quiet, well-lit area and equip it with necessary supplies like a desk, chair, and stationaries.
Tips:
Organize Supplies: Keep all necessary study materials within reach to avoid distractions.
Personalize the Space: Allow your child to decorate their study area to make it inviting and comfortable.
3. Review Last Year’s Work
Spend some time reviewing the previous year’s schoolwork. Help your child refresh their memory by gamifying it. This way, the child will not be annoyed by the prospect of studying during the last days of vacation and will have their memory refreshed to conquer the upcoming academic year.
Tips:
Interactive Learning: Use flashcards, educational apps, or online resources to make review sessions fun.
Reward System: Offer small rewards for completing review tasks to keep motivation high.
4. Plan Healthy Meals
A balanced diet is crucial for your child’s concentration and energy levels. Plan out healthy breakfast, lunch, and snack options to keep your child fuelled throughout the day.
Tips:
Meal Prep: Prepare and store meals in advance to save time during the week.
Involve Kids: Let your child help with meal planning and preparation to teach them about nutrition.
5. Reconnect with Friends
If your child has been out of touch with schoolfriends over the summer, help them reconnect before school starts. And while your child is meeting their friend, you (parents) could also connect with the friend’s parents and strike a friendship. It’s always better to go through academic experiences with someone who understands it.
Tips:
Playdates: Organize playdates or small gatherings to help your child reconnect with friends.
Encourage Communication: Use video calls or messaging apps to maintain friendships if in-person meetings are not possible.
6. Talk About Goals and Expectations
Have an open conversation with your child about their goals and expectations for the upcoming school year. Discuss what they’re looking forward to and what your expectations are. Check for any concerns they might have, and figure out ways to keep them motivated, punctual, and organized.
Tips:
Goal Setting: Help your child set realistic and achievable goals for the school year.
Regular Check-ins: Schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress and address any challenges.
Bonus Tip: Prepare with Personalized Tutoring
Getting ready for the new school year doesn't have to be stressful. To ensure your child is ready to tackle academic pressures, prepare them with Mentor Match’s 1-on-1 personalized tutoring. Studies have shown that students who enter a classroom prepared find their classes easier to follow and have less trouble navigating exams and projects.
By following these tips, you can make the transition back to school smoother and more manageable for both you and your child. With a little preparation and support, the new school year can be a time of growth, learning, and success.
Contact Mentor Match today to find the best tutor for your child's unique learning style and ensure a successful academic year!
