Setting Procedures
The first thing any teacher does at the beginning of the school year is to establish and practice, practice, practice procedures. For many parents, this is the start of your 'school year'. Take into consideration the ages and grades of your child(ren). Then decide as a general 'rule' when school work should get done, plan scheduled breaks, get outside in the sunshine, 'free time', etc. Then post your family's schedule for easy reference. This doesn't have to hard and fast but providing structure helps children to know what is expected of them and gives a sense of security. Have you come up with a routine you want to share with others? (I know there are several floating out on the web - but one-hour blocks are too long for most children - and adults for that matter.)
