Ask Dr. Pam

Dear Dr. Pam,

You gave us some great tips for our children during the summer break. Please assist us in giving our children the best school send-off ever.

~ B. Christie

Dear B. Christie,

You must have read my mind. It is extremely important to give our children the directives and charge that they require, as early as possible. Parents, please ensure that you follow your charge as well. After all, it is the most wonderful time of the year!!

BACK TO SCHOOL

* Summer is officially over; all children should have returned to their regular sleep time (usually by 8:30 pm).

* Prepare all school uniforms (washed, dried and pressed) for the week.

* Have books, and other school utensils, packed and ready to move.

* Lay out all outfits for the school day, the night before.

* Pack items like chips and cookies in the lunch bags, the night before.

* Shine shoes and prepare socks.

* Increase reading time (decrease television, computer, I pad, play station, Ipod, wii, xbox cellphones, etc.) to begin mental school preparations.

* Return to pre summer house- work schedules.

* All haircuts, perms, presses, etc. should be completed by the Saturday before school reopens.

* Begin thinking about school, reflect on last year's memories, and commence setting goals for the upcoming year.

PARENTS

* Ensure that your children have everything they need to prepare themselves for school. This includes clothing, school supplies and lunches.

* Final weaning from leisure to structural activities should have begun.

* Increase conversations on going to school, or going back to school.

* Allay all fears that younger children may have pertinent to school.

* Have open discussions about the importance of education and begin setting new goals with your children.

* Get back into the daily devotions, and encourage each child to get involved.

* Acquaint yourself with all of your children's teachers, friends, associates, and build a hedge around each child.

* Follow your child's school progress and areas of digression.

* Have regular debriefings about each child's day.

* Supervise all children's activities despite their age.

* Send each child off daily with a personal, "I Love You and have a blessed day."

~ Dr. Pam

"Great preparations can yield great returns."

Ask Doctor Pam is an advice column that is featured every Saturday in this journal. Your letters and comments are encouraged. You may email your letters or comments toaskdoctorpam@yahoo.com, or write to Askdoctorpam P.O. Box F43736. Dr. Pam is a Clinical Psychologist trained in all areas of mental health.