Suggestions for Helping Kids (of all ages) Start the Day

It's January 3rd and most of us are back to work and school following weeks of festivities-family dinners and get-togethers, parties, concerts and performances, etc. The adjustment is usually hard for all of us. The first thing this morning a second grader came up to tell me that it was really hard to get up today, because she and her brother have been staying up late having fun.

In addition to getting back on track, it is important to remember that it is the end of the semester for many schools. As a result students will be doing more testing than in regular weeks. Some things to consider to help prepare your student to do their best are:

• Get adequate rest. It is recommended that children 5-12 years old get at least 9.5 hours per night.
• Be prepared. Have the things needed for school (or work) completed and in their designated place where they are ready to be picked up as he/she walks out the door.
• Eat breakfast. It is best to include some protein and to go lower on sugar.
• Keep the morning as calm as possible. I know it can get pretty hectic with everyone getting ready for their day, but we all think, react, focus, etc. better when we are "calm, cool, and collected."
• Send him/her off with a kind word of confidence and love. It will make a difference.