FCS Blog

Last week, Mrs. Dowers talked about how to ease the transition into the school year. Now that you have done all of those things and getting to school
and the time when you get home and getting to bed are all running smoothly, let’s tackle the idea of homework.
Homework is no fun, especially if you’ve got a full schedule. You only have a little bit of time and a little bit of energy. And it takes so long to get
through it. With a little bit of thought, homework doesn’t need to make everyone’s life miserable. Here are a few thoughts:
1. Plan Your Homework and Make a List
When you start your homework, many just jump right into the first thing on your mind or the first thing you pull out of your backpack, then work your
way through the rest of your assignments. There’s a better way.
Figure out how much time you have to do homework, then list out all the different tasks that you have to do. Estimate how long it will take to complete
each assignment to see if you need to allow yourself more time. Be realistic. Once your list is complete you can work straight through instead of
stopping frequently to figure out what to do next. It will also be extremely gratifying to cross things off after each assignment you finish!
2. Get Out All the Books and Supplies You Need
While you’re working, you discover you need a calculator, you need a certain book, you need a new pencil, you ran out of paper... the list can go on.
Since you’ve now identified all your assignments, figure out everything you need to get each item done and bring it to your workspace so it’s there
when you need it.
3. Find a Quiet Place to Work Without Distractions
Speaking of workspace, you probably prefer doing your homework in front of the TV, but that can actually be the biggest distraction of all. Sitting in
front of the TV is probably slowing you down, making homework time seem much longer that it actually is.
Find a place that’s quiet, with as few distractions and clutter possible. Remember, the faster you get it done, the faster you can get back to fully
enjoying family funtime.
4. Turn Off Your Phone
We know this is probably the last thing you want to hear. How can you live without your phone? But for a couple hours, it's totally worth it. Every time
you get a notification and check your phone, it breaks your focus. It then takes more brain power to get back on track to what you were working on.
5. Listen to Classical Music While Working
We know what you’re thinking... Classical music? Seriously?
However, classical music is great for background audio. There aren’t any lyrics or beats to distract your focus. And research has shown that students
who listen to classical music score higher on tests than students who listen to other genres of music. So find some good classical playlist on Spotify,
then celebrate with your favorite music when you’re done.
6. Eat Snacks and Drink Water
At the end of a long day, you may be mentally and physically tired. If you go straight into homework it may take you a long time to finish, and it won’t
be your best work.
Having some light healthy snacks and drinking plenty of water helps revitalize your brain and body. Avoid soda, energy drinks, or sugary snacks that
will only make you crash before you’re done.
7. Take Short Breaks in Between Homework Tasks
If you have a lot to do, you may feel the pressure to just work straight through hours and hours of homework. But this will likely end up slowing you
down, prolonging the entire session.
Do your work in short sprints. Go hard at a task, then take a quick break to stretch and walk around. It’ll re-energize your mind and body to keep going.
For starters, try working for 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break.
8. Reward Yourself After You’re Finished
Homework is usually the highlight of your day but not always. Being negative can slow you down.
Our brains work off of reward systems. If you give yourself a reward when finishing your homework,
it makes it a lot easier to start your homework the next time and you’ll get through it faster.
Rewards could be being able to watch a show, eat ice cream, play a game,
or go out and do something fun.
Now that you’ve got all these tips, go get your homework done faster than ever before.
It may be hard at first, but keep using these tips and it’ll get easier as you go.
God Bless,
David

The beginnings of a new school year can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially for preschool and
elementary students. Whether it's their very first school experience, they're transitioning from one school to another, or
they just simply are beginning another new year - the adjustment period is crucial for their emotional and academic
development. So, how do we combat the anxiety and stress? Here are some strategies to help our young students settle into
a new school environment smoothly:
1. Establish a Routine
Children thrive on routine. Set a consistent schedule for mornings and evenings that includes time for breakfast (something
healthy to get them ready for their day), school preparation, and winding down after school. A stable routine helps children
feel secure and can ease the anxiety of new experiences.
2. Encourage Open Communication
Create an environment where your child feels comfortable sharing their feelings about the new school. Whether they’re
excited, nervous, or even scared, it’s important to validate their emotions and offer reassurance. Encourage them to talk
about their day, new friends, and any challenges they may be facing.
3. Involve Them in the Process
Let your child take an active role in the transition. This could be as simple as picking out their school supplies or choosing
their first-day outfit. Being involved in the process gives them a sense of control, which can help reduce anxiety.
4. Be Patient and Positive
Adjusting to a new school environment takes time. Some children adapt quickly, while others may need a few weeks or even
months. During this period, offer plenty of positive reinforcement and celebrate small milestones, like making a new friend
or learning a new classroom routine.
5. Stay Connected with the School
Maintain regular communication with your child’s teacher to stay informed about their progress and any potential concerns.
Teachers can offer valuable insights and may suggest additional strategies to help your child adjust.
6. Encourage Social Interaction
Encourage your child to participate in school activities or playdates with classmates. Building friendships is a key part of
feeling comfortable in a new environment. If possible, arrange for them to meet some of their peers before school starts.

Transitioning to a new school environment is a significant step in a child’s life, but with the right support, it can be a positive
and enriching experience. By being proactive, patient, and encouraging, you can help your preschool or elementary student
adjust to their new school with confidence and ease.
Mrs. Megan Dowers
Early Childhood Education & Extended Care Director