Back to school "don't do" list
You have bought 16 coloured notebooks, a Disney lunch box and a pair of “to-grow-into” running shoes. You have circled the date on your calendar and arranged daycare, transportation and lunches. You are doing everything you can think of to ensure that your kids are as happy as you are about school starting again. Here are a few things that you might want to consider not doing as you get your children ready for back to school:
Don't try to pack everything the first day - Even if the list says they need pencils, pens, paper, markers, an eraser, highlighters, a calculator nobody will call the school supply police if your child doesn't have everything in their bag on the first day.
Don't believe the "I'm the only one" story - Do not forget that, contrary to what your children would have you believe, other parents also put limits on designer clothes, high tech gadgets and lunch money. If your child is trying to play the "everybody else has it and I don't" card, don't play too much into it.
Don't let young children take unnecessary things to school - We can safely assume that your child will not be required to use an iPod, cell phone or Gameboy to successfully pass grade three. Any of these gadgets, however, could make him a target for some extra-curricular harassment or theft.
Don't forget children in need - As you speed-spend on clothes, books and haircuts, remind your children that not everybody is so lucky, by checking out the World Vision Gift Catalogue (Worldvision.ca/gifts). Together you can buy a gift to help an underprivileged child get ready for school.
Don't criticize out loud - You may not be entirely satisfied with your child's school situation, but she doesn't need to know. If you're not crazy about the new teacher, the old principal, or the basketball hoops in the schoolyard, try to resolve your problems between adults.
Don't take yourselves too seriously - School is important, but so are family and friends and ice cream. The end of summer doesn't have to signal the end of good times. Making space for some family silliness throughout the school year will help all of you survive and thrive.
