To help gear up for the school year, there are ways parents can keep their kids on track throughout the summer. Monika Popik, primary directress at Cleveland Montessori, tells us how you can help your child reach the finish line.
Build a learning culture: Get the whole family involved in doing activities that stimulate learning in different settings, such as making weekly visits to the library or museum. “You’re setting this idea that learning isn’t in isolation,” says Popik. “[Learning more] doesn’t just happen in a school building.”
Take small steps: If your child needs extra help in one certain area, such as math or reading, try the 10-minute approach that Popik uses. Sit down with your child for 10 minutes Monday through Friday and coach them through an equation. “Think of what is the least amount of time you can do, that is still going to be beneficial,” says Popik. Doing it consistently will provide a positive impact, she adds.
Open conversation: For children to be successful, it’s important they are socially and emotionally well. If a child’s parents are dealing with divorce or another issue, communicate that with their teacher. “When I have a good relationship with the parent, and they know I’m doing all that I can do [to help in the classroom],” Popik says, “it makes the hard work that much easier.”
