Lend a Helping Hand - Read to Your Child

I often hear people state the English language is difficult to learn and most times I nod without much consideration. Our school sent home this poem, which eloquently illustrates the difficulties the English language poses for emergent readers. Its conclusion is fabulous; stating what we all know – read to your child!

HELP!!!!!
I’m trying hard to read
But what’s a kid to do
When there’s a NO and a GO and a SO and a HO
And then there’s a word like TO?

Reading BONE and CONE and LONE and TONE
Can almost be kind of fun
But I get upset when I have to believe
That D-O-N-E spells DONE!

It’s plain to see a kid like me
Sure needs a helping hand.
No matter how much I really try
I just don’t understand.

I’m trying hard to learn to read.
Somehow that’s what I’ll do.
But for now if you’ll just read to me
Someday I’ll read to you!

Author unknown

Back to School Night

Due to unforeseen circumstances, just my husband attended back to school night. He felt it was extremely informative. Per my request, he took notes. The five pages of notes came in handy when we talked about his evening!

First and foremost, he felt all parents should make an effort to attend their Back to School Night. This is a great opportunity for parents to meet the children’s teachers. In addition, they discuss pertinent school information as well as expectations.

Some of the discussion was school specific; focusing on school assessments and the results. Our school would like kindergarteners to be at an advanced reading level of 6 by the end of the fourth quarter. This benchmark, advanced reading in early elementary grades, has been identified by the county as one of the seven keys to college readiness. I will expand more on this topic in another post but a level 4 is the reading target for kindergarteners at the end of fourth quarter.

They discussed a broad array of topics ranging from conflict resolution to tardiness to the dreaded lice. Of the many topics discussed that evening, two definitely warranted additional discussions.

My husband notified me of the county ordnance that does not permit homemade food; only store-bought, pre-packaged food can be brought into the classroom for parties, snacks etc. When I first heard this policy, I was saddened that I could not make cupcakes or cookies just like my Mom did for me on my birthday. Reality set in quickly and I realized the importance of this policy. Bringing in store bought products allows teachers to view the ingredients. This information prevents children with food allergies to have an allergic reaction while celebrating a classmate’s birthday.

In addition, birthday invitations are not allowed to be passed out in school. They should be mailed home to avoid hurt feelings. What a great policy! My daughter’s birthday is mid-September and I struggled to obtain her new friend’s addresses. Our school directory isn’t published until October. I contacted her teacher, who was extremely prompt in responding to my requests. I realize this may create additional work and money (e.g. stamp) but it is worth it if a child doesn’t get upset.

If your school currently does not have either of the two policies I would recommend implementing them. Both serve an important purpose – they protect our children.

Back to School Parent’s Checklist

Our children are getting acclimated to their new schedules. They are meeting new friends, becoming acquainted with their new teachers and familiar with the school’s behavior standards. While our children adapt to their school and its related components, as parents we should make sure the following items are in place.

Emergency Information

Make sure you submit your child’s student emergency information form to your school. This important information allows you to be contacted promptly if your child is sick or injured.

Child’s Cafeteria Account

While my children bring their lunch most days, they do enjoy the pizza and pancakes on upside down day. Our school has an automated system but that convenience comes at a price so I send in a check. Make sure your check includes your child’s first name, last name, and the appropriate ID number. If you qualify for free and/or reduced-price meals, submit your application. Our school district bases eligibility on family size and income. For additional information, go to your school’s website or call them directly.

School Calendar

Two years ago, I missed Moms and Muffins which ended up being a traumatic event for my son. As a result, I began to enter all activities and events into Microsoft Outlook. At the beginning of the school year, I now obtain the school calendar and enter all pertinent information for the entire school year. You can also use a planner or calendar. At a minimum, have a copy of the school calendar handy and refer to it regularly.

Back-to-School Night

Keep informed about the time your school sets aside for you to meet with teachers. Our initial meeting is tonight which is called back to school night. My husband and I look forward to talking to both of our children’s teachers without them present. Make sure you line up a babysitter or contact a friend or family member.

Flu Vaccinations

Our county offers free voluntary seasonal flu vaccinations (Flu Mist) to all elementary school students beginning on Sept 23 through October 23. I would recommend consulting your physician prior to receiving the Flu Mist. I just learned that after receiving the Flu Mist you must wait 30 days before you can receive another vaccine (e.g. H1N1 vaccine). Make sure you keep informed about your school’s plans in the event of a H1N1 (swine flu) outbreak.

Source: www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org