Let's Talk!

Let's talk!  When it comes to student success, parents, teachers, and especially students themselves can all benefit from organization inside and outside the classroom. In order for students to have a head start in their education, it is important to be organized. This organization is as easy as getting the right agenda, filling it out correctly, and using it properly.

Getting the right agenda is key. Parents, let your child pick out his or her own agenda. It is all about the students and their comfort level. It is crucial to give your child that sense of ownership. After all, it is your child's success, not yours (even though you play a large role in this success)!

After your child picks out his or her agenda, take some time at home to ensure he or she knows how to use it. Go trough your child's school day and talk about where the work goes. Don't assume your child knows how to do these things. Remember, we have to teach them how to be organized!

The next step is talking to your child's teachers about his or her agenda. It will be up to your child to write down any and all assignments (even if there is no work...encourage that to be written down as well). Ask the teacher if he or she would be willing to simply put his or her initials next to your child's assignment. Most teachers will not mind because your child is doing the work of actually writing down the assignment. It would be difficult for a teacher to write in every child's agenda all assignments, that's why asking them just to initial is more practical if you want their support.

At home, check your child's agenda daily. This is a norm you have to set as a parent so the child knows it is important. Praise him or her for completing this task. Be positive! Show your child that this one simple step has awesome benefits.

Katy Divergent is a wife, mother, and future Real Housewife of Somewhere.