Back-to-School Success (on TV): 3 Simple Strategies for a Strong Start

Starting the School Year Off Right: A Strength-Based Approach for You and Your Family

As the summer winds down and back-to-school season approaches, many parents begin to feel the familiar stirrings of anxiety about their children’s academic success. It’s natural to want the best for your kids—to see them excel in school, achieve high grades, and participate in all the right extracurricular activities. But what if I told you that one of the best ways to ensure your child’s success isn’t to push them harder academically, but to focus on something a little more counterintuitive?

Welcome to the world of strength-based psychology, an empowering approach that emphasizes fostering a supportive environment where children can thrive, not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well. Instead of zeroing in on grades and test scores, this approach encourages parents to focus on building a strong foundation at home that will allow their children to grow into confident, well-rounded individuals.

Here I’ll share with you three powerful strategies for starting the school year off on the right foot. These tips are designed to help reduce anxiety, build self-esteem, and create a deeper connection with your children—all of which are key ingredients for success in school and beyond.

Three Tips:
1. Create a Visible Family Schedule: Organizing for Success

One of the most effective ways to reduce stress and anxiety in your household is to establish a clear and visible family schedule. This may seem like a simple step, but the benefits it brings are profound.

Why does a Family Schedule Matter?

Children, like adults, thrive on routine. A predictable schedule provides a sense of security, which is crucial for reducing anxiety. When children know what to expect each day—when they have a clear understanding of their routines, activities, and even meal times—they are more likely to feel calm and in control. This, in turn, frees up mental space for learning, socializing, and exploring their interests.

Research has shown that children who grow up in structured environments tend to perform better academically. A study conducted by the University of Albany found that children with consistent routines at home had better self-regulation skills, which are directly linked to academic achievement. Moreover, these routines help children develop time management skills early on, which are invaluable as they progress through school and eventually into adulthood.

How to Create an Effective Family Schedule?

Start by mapping out the essential parts of your family’s day. This could include:

- Family Meal times/days: Regular meal times contribute to a sense of stability and provide opportunities for family bonding.
- Homework and study periods: Set aside specific times for homework and studying. Make this a non-negotiable part of the day, but allow some flexibility based on your child’s workload and needs.
- Extracurricular activities: Include time for extracurriculars, but be mindful of over-scheduling. More on this in the next section.
- Free time and family time: Balance structured activities with downtime. Children need time to relax, play, and spend quality time with family.

Once you’ve outlined your schedule, post it somewhere visible—like on the refrigerator or a family command center. This visual aid helps everyone stay on the same page and allows children to see what’s coming next, reducing uncertainty and stress.

Tips for Success:

- Involve your children: Let them have a say in the schedule. This not only gives them a sense of control but also teaches responsibility.
- Be flexible: While consistency is key, life happens. Don’t be afraid to adjust the schedule when necessary, but communicate any changes to your children to keep them in the loop.
- Review and adjust regularly: As the school year progresses, review the schedule with your family and make any necessary adjustments. This ensures the schedule continues to meet everyone’s needs.

2. Choose Extracurricular Activities Wisely: Building Self-Esteem

Extracurricular activities are an integral part of a child’s development. They offer opportunities for children to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build friendships. However, not all activities are created equal, and choosing the right ones can have a significant impact on your child’s self-esteem.

The Importance of Self-Esteem in Childhood:

Self-esteem is a critical component of mental health and well-being. Children with high self-esteem are more likely to take on challenges, persevere in the face of difficulties, and have a positive outlook on life. On the other hand, children with low self-esteem may struggle with anxiety, depression, and a fear of failure.

Extracurricular activities play a crucial role in building self-esteem. When children engage in activities they enjoy and excel at, they develop a sense of competence and achievement. This boosts their confidence and encourages them to take on new challenges, both in and out of school.

How to Choose the Right Activities?

When selecting extracurricular activities for your child, consider the following:

- Interest and passion: What does your child enjoy doing? Whether it’s sports, music, art, or science, choose activities that align with their interests. When children are passionate about something, they’re more likely to stick with it and derive a sense of fulfillment from it.
- Balance: Avoid over-scheduling your child. While it’s tempting to enroll them in multiple activities to keep them busy, too many commitments can lead to burnout and stress. Aim for a balance that allows them to explore different interests while still having time for homework, family, and relaxation.
- Skill level: Choose activities that match your child’s skill level. While it’s important to encourage growth, placing your child in an activity that’s too advanced can be discouraging. Conversely, if an activity is too easy, they may become bored and lose interest. Look for programs that offer a good mix of challenge and support.
- Social environment: The social aspect of extracurricular activities is just as important as the activity itself. Look for programs that promote teamwork, inclusivity, and positive peer interactions. A supportive social environment can greatly enhance your child’s experience and boost their self-esteem.

Expert Tip for Building Self-Esteem:

One of the most effective ways to build your child’s self-esteem through extracurricular activities is to focus on mastery rather than competition. Encourage your child to set personal goals and celebrate their progress, no matter how small. This shifts the focus from winning or being the best to personal growth and achievement, which is far more empowering and sustainable.

For example, if your child is involved in a sport, instead of emphasizing the importance of winning games, encourage them to work on improving their skills and personal bests. Celebrate milestones like running a faster time, learning a new technique, or showing good sportsmanship. This approach not only builds self-esteem but also fosters a growth mindset—a belief that abilities can be developed through effort and practice.

3. Connect Authentically with Your Kids: The Power of Bonding

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, leaving little time for meaningful connections with our children. However, authentic connection is one of the most powerful tools we have as parents to support our children’s development and well-being.

The Science Behind Connection:

When we connect authentically with our children—through physical affection, quality time, and attentive listening—we trigger the release of oxytocin and serotonin, two hormones that play a vital role in brain development and emotional regulation.

Oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” is released during moments of bonding, such as hugging, cuddling, or simply spending time together. This hormone not only strengthens the parent-child bond but also has a calming effect on the brain, reducing stress and anxiety.

Serotonin, known as the “happiness hormone,” is associated with feelings of well-being and contentment. When children experience positive interactions with their parents, their serotonin levels increase, leading to better mood regulation and a more positive outlook on life.

Research has shown that these hormones also enhance brain plasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and learn. This means that when children feel connected and supported by their parents, they are more receptive to learning, better able to focus, and more likely to succeed academically.

How to Foster Authentic Connection:

Creating authentic connections with your children doesn’t require grand gestures or elaborate plans. It’s the small, everyday moments that make the biggest impact. Here are some simple yet powerful ways to connect with your kids:

- Be present: In today’s digital age, it’s easy to be physically present but mentally elsewhere. Make a conscious effort to put away your phone, turn off the TV, and give your child your full attention. Whether it’s during mealtime, bedtime, or just a quiet moment together, being fully present shows your child that they are valued and loved.
- Listen actively: When your child talks to you, really listen. Ask open-ended questions, show empathy, and avoid interrupting. This not only strengthens your bond but also helps your child develop communication skills and emotional intelligence.
- Engage in shared activities: Find activities that you and your child both enjoy and do them together. Whether it’s cooking, playing a board game, going for a walk, or reading a book, shared experiences create lasting memories and deepen your connection.
- Express physical affection: Don’t underestimate the power of a hug, a pat on the back, or holding hands. Physical touch is a powerful way to convey love and reassurance, and it helps your child feel safe and secure.

Remember, as the school year begins, success isn’t just about grades and academic achievements. It’s about creating a nurturing environment where your child feels supported, confident, and connected. By implementing a visible family schedule, choosing the right extracurricular activities, and fostering authentic connections with your kids, you’re laying the foundation for their overall well-being and long-term success. These simple yet powerful strategies will help your family start the school year off strong, setting the stage for growth, learning, and a deeper bond that will last far beyond the classroom.

For more tips, please see my interview on Global News - simply click the link here: BACK TO SCHOOL SUCCESS ON GLOBAL NEWS

Have a great start to the new school year!