What an amazing start to the school year we’ve had. There is nothing better than seeing hundreds of smiling children’s faces stepping off the buses on the first day of school. We’d like to thank the parents and community for stopping in at our open house-facility tour night on Aug. 31. Over 700 hot dogs were served. The students of Braham are going to have the opportunity to enjoy these facilities for many years.
As a parent I find myself asking the question, “If I wasn’t working at the school, how could I get involved in my child’s education?” There are several ways you can do this. This can start when your children get home after school. Have a routine, snack, homework, reading, and a time to play. Ask questions that engage your child in conversation. Many times I fall into the habit of asking, “Did you have a good day?” and the conversation can end there with a “yes” or “no.” Ask, “What was the best part of your day today?”or “What did you learn today?”
Have an open line of communication with your child’s teacher. Email, phone calls, twitter, or scheduled visits are great ways to get involved. All email addresses at Braham are the teacher’s first initial followed by the last name, then @braham.k12.mn.us. If you are on twitter, you can follow our school or teachers by first following @BrahamElem. From here you can click on following and find your child’s teacher(s).
Maintain a positive attitude about school and the work your child is doing. Just because I am frustrated with something doesn’t mean I should let that reflect in how I talk to my 4-year old daughter about school.
Check your child’s backpack. Many times there are pieces of work or communication from school that can keep you connected to school and your child’s education. Ask about the work that is brought home. Get excited about successes. Sit down and encourage your student when there is difficulty. Send the message that you can do this together.
Read. When your children are younger, carve out 20 minutes a night to spend reading with your child. When they get old enough, let them read to you. When they are at the age when they want to read by themselves, find a book and join them. Adults that read regularly have a powerful influence on kids.
Find your child’s learning style. Finding out how your child thinks and processes information can open doors you never thought were possible. Many times, identifying this learning style can help parents work with children at home with things that are not school related. Check out this website for some great suggestions, www.scholastic.com/familymatters.
What activities is your child interested-involved in? Life is busy. Not everyone can direct, advise, coach, etc. Just being there can mean the world to your child. I might not know anything about baseball or acting, but because my child is involved, I am going to be there to support them. This can lead to great connections and conversations. Who knows, as parents, we may learn something too.
Lastly, volunteer. We love having parents volunteer at the school. If you are able, and you are interested, please call Jan Strohkirch at 320-396-5180 or Julie Johnson at 320-396-5201 to talk about how to make this happen.
Thank you for all the support you give Braham Schools. This support continues to make our school one of the most unique and successful schools for kids.
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Successful start to Braham school year
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