Early elementary parents take on new challenges as their kids move into the grades K-3. The top tips I list here have some similarities to the Top Tips for Toddler Parents that I listed last week.
Keep Routines. Early elementary children still need routines, although they may vary from the toddler routines. Regular bedtimes (10-12 hours of sleep a night), nightly tasks to prepare for bedtime and bedtime routines such as reading a book or saying prayers are all important. When your child knows the routine and what to expect, things should run more smoothly.
Reading, Reading, Reading. Read together every day, even if it’s only for 10-15 minutes. Let them pick the books and then take time to talk about the story afterwards.
Let their independence grow. Give your young elementary children simple responsibilities like packing their backpack, choosing their clothes and picking their toys. Teach them to try to solve small problems on their own first before asking for help.
Encourage learning. Praise their efforts, not just the results that you see. Show interest in what they’re learning at school or at soccer or little league practice. Ask about their day–the highlights, what was fun, etc.
Help develop their social/emotional skills. Talk to them about their feelings, about compassion and empathy. Teach them the concepts of taking turns, asking for help or managing their anger. In all of these, your example is the best teacher.
Limit screen time. Set clear boundaries for recreational screen use. For instance, set a daily time limit that cannot be used before school or before homework and chores are done. To counteract screen time, provide opportunities for them to play outside, use their creativity and read, read, read.
Work with their teachers. Communicate frequently with their teachers and let them know that you want to support them in their work by checking in regularly and attending conferences. Ask them how you can support them at home.
Create a homework-friendly environment. If your child brings home work from school, set up a place that is quiet, free from distractions, and clutter-free with supplies close by.
Give them a growth mindset. Let them know that it’s okay to make mistakes because that is how they learn. Celebrate progress and effort over perfection. Give them little goals to achieve and praise their small steps of achievement.
Lead by example. This tip is one that is timeless. Parents should lead by example as long as they are parents. Your children need to see you reading, solving problems calmly, handling your anger, and caring for others. They learn most by watching you daily.
Early elementary kids are full of curiousity, brutal honesty, imagination, and playfulness. They are eager to please, quick to love and working to build their identity. They are caught in the middle of early childhood and the maturity that is soon to come as they grow older. They are starting to figure out who they are, what they like, what they are good at and how they fit into the world. As parents, your influence is the biggest factor in that equation of growth.
If you have parenting questions, please schedule a free intro call here. I’d love to help!
