Summer has come and gone—and for families across the nation—back-to-school season has officially begun. The end of summer indicates the end of vacations and flexible schedules and the beginning of school bells and bus schedules. Families today are involved in many activities and many strive to set consistent routines for their children. Every family has a routine, whether or not they fully realize it. Believe it or not, it’s the simple things—from the time we wake up our children in the morning, to the time we set for bed, to the location we select to review homework – that make up family routines.
Children watch and learn habits from their parents. For that reason, setting or helping our children develop routines during this time of the year is especially important. Routines help children learn a sense of security and help them develop self-discipline. Developing routines provide opportunities for children to experience success in what they are doing. Routines also allow for more flexibility in a day. As parents, a desire for independence is something that we want for our children as they develop through each stage of their childhood and beyond.
As you begin this school year, take 10 minutes to reflect and examine the routines you have established for your family by participating in the Learning Habit Study. This study, conducted by researchers from Brown University School of Medicine, Children’s National Medical Center, and New England Center for Pediatric Psychology, examines how media use, family routines, and parenting style impact a child’s ability to learn. It will heighten your awareness about specific family routines that impact learning.
Learn more about the Learning Habit Study.
Renee Jackson, Ed.D, Manager of School Relations & Diversity. Contact Renee at rjackson@pta.org
This is a beautifully written and thoughtful piece, Dr. Jackson. I hope that PTAers across the nation will take 10 minutes to contribute to this truly important study. Thank you.