The start of a new school year can be a difficult time for
some children and young teens. The
Summer Learn Loss theory suggests that most kids loose and average of 1-3 months of learning when on
summer vacation, depending on household income and environment. Teachers for a
while have noticed that summer vacation is a period of academic decline. It is
no wonder why some children have a difficult time getting back into an academic
routine. It is important for parents for help their child get ready for a new
school year by establishing a healthy schedule.
Before returning to school, doctors strongly recommend a
well-balanced breakfast and a full night’s rest that way your developing child
has enough energy to pay attention in class. Proper nutrition is essential for
developing children and young adults and can help them stay focused when they
are sitting in on an hour long math lecture.
Cutting down on TV
and Technology
Cutting down on technology may not be your child’s favorite
idea but it is necessary for academic success. In the age of technology, it is easy
for kids to become distracted from school work through the internet, TV and
cell phones.
One research study found that TV’s effects on education were
long term. The study found that watching TV as a child affected educational
achievements at age 26. Watching more TV in childhood increased chances of
dropping out of school and decreased chances of getting a college degree, even
after controlling for confounding factors.
[1]
According to a
study conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation, children from the ages of 8 to 18
spend an average of 7.5 hours a day on devices.
This includes using a smart phone, computer, and watching television. The
shocking reality is that the over usage of media devices can be very
detrimental to your child’s academic development.
“The study showed that 47 percent
of the heaviest media users-those who consumed at least 16 hours a day- had a
grade point average of C’s or lower. They were also the ones to most likely
report that they were bored or sad, or that they got into trouble, did not get
along well with their parents and were not happy at school,” NY Times reported
in a 2010 publication article titled
IfYour Kids Are Awake, They’re Probably Online.
Although the study did not determine if over usage of media
devices directly contributed to the mental detriment of kids between the ages
of 8 and 18, the study did; however, draw a strong correlation between academic
success and technology use. Transitioning your kids out of this 8 hour habit
may be very difficult but also may be necessary for your child’s academic
success. It is unrealistic for parents
to try and eliminate all outlets of media but it is suggested that parents
limit their child’s use of media devices.
Finding the Balance
Every parent wants what’s best for their son or daughter and
would do just about anything to make them happy. It is important for parents to
realize that cutting back on your child’s media use could result in initial
defiant behavior and rebellion but it won’t be like that forever. Parents should first communicate with their
child about the importance of academic success and help them understand why you
are limiting their media use. Next, parents should seek input from their child.
Ask them what they think they need to do in order to succeed this school year
and what you can do to help them achieve their goals. Like with anything, the
best way to start a new routine first starts with open communication then establishing
goals, setting a plan, recognizing milestones, and most importantly-patience.
