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Show School and J Homo 7 by Dr. Daryl J. McCarty I Executive Secretary i J Utah Education Association So you're breathing a sigh of relief now that the children have left the roost and are back in school. Now, maybe you can get at many of those chores, or relax a little. NOT SO fasti Don't forget that those children are still yours. That you'll have them at home more hours in the day than they will be in school. And that attending school is only a part of their total education. educa-tion. Now that the children have been in school a few days, have you taken the time to discuss their concerns, hopes, and aspirations as-pirations for this year? If your daughter wants to try out for a part in the school play, encourage her. If your son wants to take an after-school job so he can buy a car, talk seriously with him about the obligations of car ownership and the demands of being a student. THEN DISCUSS the classes your children are taking. If a student expresses fear of failing a class, ask why the anxiety. an-xiety. Then discuss things that will help the student to succeed. One of those ways is to talk tnings ove. with the teacher. Find out what the teacher thinks is important for the student to get out of the class, what specifically should be studied, information informa-tion on how the teacher grades, and any special things the teacher may expect of students. MAYBE ITS best for you to initiate a conference with the teacher early in the year, even if your student is doing "A" work. Are there things the teacher should know about your child? The teacher will want to know about any medical problems (such as pills the child may take, recent surgery, or vision problems); any emotional emo-tional trauma; and any tips on motivating the child. NOW, THEN, look around your house this evening. Are the kids studying? if so, are they hitting the books in a quiet, well-lighted place? Or is a television set fighting for their attention? Parenthood isn't easy! Maybe you can relax during the Christmas holidays. |