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Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer,
believe that you have  received it,
and it will be yours. (Mark 11:24)

Anything God commands us to do, He will help us. He will make a way. God has called you and He equips the called. Post Deuteronomy 30:11 on your refrigerator: Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach.

Remember to pray, pray, pray!

 

Enlist the Troops

Get kids into the habit of helping with breakfast and lunch on home days, and cleaning up their workspace at the end of the day. Books and school folders should be returned to backpacks so that nothing is lost and schoolwork is ready to be turned in. Even the smallest students can help pack lunches and set out clothes to prepare for on-campus school days.

 

Keep it Simple

Focus on just one or two goals at a time, rather than tackling everything at once. When a new habit is in place, then move on to the next goal.

 

Empower Your Kids

Empower kids to make decisions. Encourage them in age-appropriate ways to adapt routines whenever unexpected situations arise. Teachers begin guiding students towards more independence in elementary school. Talk with your child’s teacher about expectations and tips.

 

Let Your Child Be the Student

Co-teachers work very hard to help their students understand and complete assignments; it can seem personal when a lower-than-expected grade is given. Sometimes we can forget that our kids are the ones attending Legacy – not us! Look over homework to see if concepts are being learned, but don’t worry if every grade isn’t 100%. No one is perfect, and your kids need some grace and wiggle room to make mistakes and take responsibility.

 

A Note for Middle School & High School Parents

Students sometimes begin to resist co-teacher involvement as they get older, but you still have a big role. They’re not in college yet! Your role at a minimum includes checking the grade book to make sure students are turning in assignments, identifying weak areas and teaching study skills or securing tutoring or other help, assisting with time management, and any assignments that require parental involvement. You’re also still shaping their character. Remember that YOU are the parent and the co-teacher. Do not allow your child to dictate the student/co-teacher role. That’s up to you. Use this season to teach the biblical concept of honor – ask (and require) your child to honor you.

If your child is transferring in from a traditional five-day school, you may encounter some resistance as students often aren’t used to parents checking up on their progress. Remind your child that this model of schooling is different and the school requires your involvement. If you “check out” on home days, you’re cheating your child out of having a teacher on those days and your student will likely not do as well academically or spiritually.

 

Making Friends

New students are assigned a Buddy (called an Ambassador in 7th-12th grades) by their teacher during the first week of the fall semester. Buddies help students navigate schedules and make sure your child has someone to hang out with at lunch/recess.

7th boysIt’s very important – especially for moms with tender hearts – to remember that developing true friendships takes time. Your child may need to experiment with interests and activities, and you may need to take the initiative to have a couple of classmates over for some hang out time before feeling settled in. You can help by attending class socials and participating in an extracurricular activity or small group.

Try not to panic if your child goes through a time of feeling disconnected. This is an opportunity to pray together for new friends and let your child watch as the Lord walks with him or her. Your child will experience “being the new guy” in many seasons of life…now is a great time to teach how to handle this.

Sample Student Activities List

Fine Arts

Elementary Friday Electives

School Newspaper

Legacy Athletics

Photo Gallery (password: golions)

 

Getting Involved

Even grown-ups can feel disconnected at first in a new environment. If you find yourself feeling this way, remember that this is natural. Connecting and finding your niche will take time for you, just like your kids. Keep your own personality in mind and set realistic expectations. Try to give others the benefit of the doubt.

It’s helpful to stay focused on your primary calling – passing along your faith and values to your children. Use this opportunity to reconnect with your family and the Lord. Ask Him to walk with you while you’re new, and you’ll be a veteran in no time!

Take advantage of these opportunities to connect with other parents:

  • Facebook groups for each class (instructions are provided in the summer parent emails or available at the front desk)
  • Encouragement groups
  • Committees
  • Parent trainings
  • Service projects
  • Field trips
  • Athletic and fine arts events
 

Most co-teachers and students are in a groove by the second semester. If you’re still struggling at Christmas, make an appointment with our Dean of Family Ministry for suggestions and a listening ear.

 

Keep It Positive

Always remember to be positive with your children. They need to hear you speak to your spouse and friends about the fact that this is doable and worth the sacrifice.

 

Recommended Resources

shepherding 2

Visit our Pinterest page for ideas.

Resources for Elementary Co-teachers

Resources for Middle School Co-teachers

Resources for High School Co-teachers

Middle/High School Test-Taking Tips

Middle/High School Test-Taking Skills

Love is Lesson One

Helpful Hints for Home Days with Multiple Children

Backpack Intervention: End Homework Battles

 

 

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