Parents & Staff:

With the upcoming holiday just around the corner it means that normal schedules for all of us will be changing. Some adjust just fine and others struggle with it. Either way is just fine. How do we help others that struggle with change? I am glad you asked….

Preplan for the time of change. This will help everyone. Keep to your schedule. Maybe you need to start counting the days down until Christmas break. This might be beneficial for the younger students. Once on break, you might start the countdown until school starts back up. This might be helpful for the adults!

It would be so helpful for your child(ren) to set up a schedule for them:

• Consistent bedtime

• Consistent wakeup time

• Consistent mealtimes

• Consistent time to read alone or aloud to you. When is the last time you heard your child read aloud?

• Consistent time to practice math, with you or on IXL. Everyone can benefit from flashcards and practice

Maybe add in some fun time doing the following with your child(ren):

• Making a meal together

• Baking cookies

• Winter fun outside – snow?

• Coloring

• Build something together

• Do dishes the “old fashion” way. Visit, tell “mom and dad” stories.

Children long to spend time with mom and dad, grandma and grandpa. Too often we get caught up in our own lives, and with all the electronics, that we neglect to socialize with those around us. Find ways to reconnect.

Start creating that schedule, talk to your child(ren) about it and pencil it out so that you don’t hear the words, “I’m bored!” Planning helps to keep the kids engaged and out of trouble from being bored.

Unstructured play is learning! Students improve self regulation, focus, problem solving, creative skills and social skills. It is some of the best kind of learning.

Have a wonderful Christmas break,

Mr. Steve