Back to School. Back to Reality.

You did it moms, dads and guardians of our little ones!  You dutifully got our children ready for another great school year and one step closer to being productive and independent members of society. 

Today marks the first day of the new school year in Fairfax County.  For those who work outside the home or are stay-at-home parents, September brings more rigid schedules, sports, and other extracurricular activities.   In the rush to get new shoes, pencils, and other supplies don’t forget to offer what most of our schools really need – parents and guardians who are involved.

Mama McLean happens to be a parent who works outside of the home.  I treasure the opportunity to be a part of the “team” prepping my children to be future leaders, business owners, scientists, or diplomats.  One of the best ways to get involved is via the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).  Being a member of the PTA says you not only care about your own children but the entire school community.  You don’t have to be president of the group or a leader but rather a doer.  I suspect there are many opportunities to volunteer and give of your time as your time permits. 

My favorite memories of motherhood are fieldtrips.  Whether it is an ice-cold morning at the National Zoo and breathing through my nose in the stinky Great Ape House or wearing my rain boots during a monsoon at Jamestown – these are key events and important  memories.  So, plan ahead now if you work outside the home and find out if you can take several hours off work to support these adventures.  Or, if you are a stay-at-home parent with little ones still at home see if a friend can watch your kids.  The important message – plan ahead and be present for your kids! 

Another important reminder – find out the rubric for your kids’ grades.  What is a “rubric” you ask? They are the pre-determined standards your children will be graded on for each and every subject over the course of the school year.  The following link will help you understand what your child will be taught during the school year and how they will be measured: http://www.fcps.edu/is/pos/es.shtml 

And, to follow up – find out IN ADVANCE what your kid will learn from their teacher so you can tie this learning into your home life.  If your child is learning about our Founding Fathers perhaps you can talk about our Founding Fathers during dinner to reinforce what they are learning at school.  Most teachers will gladly let you know what they have planned for the week or month and will welcome your support at home!

Finally – read, read and read!  Every day. Yes – it is a headache and hassle but it is so darn important!  Read to your kids, with your kids or have them act out their reading.  Find subjects that interest them!  Yes, you may hear or read the same Olivia book a hundred times but I promise you in the end it will pay off.

Again, cheers to you and good luck!