Parent Responsibilities:
Please support the teacher in the classroom by doing a few things, such as...
1. Checking the planner and signing it every night. (ask about your child's work written on the planner. All unfinished work needs to be finished at home if they are really behind, remembering they have the whole week to work)
2. Make sure homework is complete and you practiced for the spelling test. (homework is due on Friday. Please check that it is complete, accurate, and in cursive. Math can be printed. Please don't do it for your child!)
3. Work with your child, not for your child. You already graduated elementary school, now let your child do the work. You can check work, give more examples of math, provide extra help, etc. Don't do their science fair project!
4. Work with your child to make a weekly schedule. Have a plan of when to get homework done around other needs, such as dance class, sports, etc.
5. Provide a designated space to put all backpacks, school work, and the planner when your child gets home. There should also be a place to do homework.
6. Give your child chores/responsibilities at home. There is a link of ideas on this page. I would like all students to at the very least, pack their lunch and backpacks.
7. Limit screen time and practice silence. There have been numerous studies linking screen time to attention issues. This includes TV, computer, video games, etc. Practice silence in the house. This works really well the last 30 minutes before bedtime. No TV, no music, just talking to each other.
8. Set clear expectations and clear consequences. Most importantly, follow through on the consequences immediately. Make sure your consequences are realistic. Do not accept excuses from your child or make excuses for negative behavior.
9. Be a role model of reading. Put an emphasis on learning, especially reading, by reading yourself. Do it as a family. Even 4th and 5th graders love it when you read to them!
Welcome to the wonderful world of the 4th and 5th grader. You will witness some huge changes in your child over the next couple of years. By the end of 5th grade, most students are dealing with the beginning of puberty. Also, you will witness emotional swings and a more rebellious streak, as well as a completely confused and unorganized child trying to fit in with his/her peers. Here is some great reading on what to expect.
If you have questions about your changing child, let me know. I can usually give you an insight as to what to expect and what I have observed for your child. I can also help you with middle school decisions.
Home responsibilites for 2-12 year olds(page down to age 9-12)
