No matter how much you and your family wish the days would stop flying by, the time for school bells and backpacks is rapidly approaching.  Hopefully you and your child are well-rested and ready for another great school year. There are many things you need to do to help your child start her year off right. Use these innovative tips to help you complete even the most commonplace tasks more efficiently and thoroughly.

Tackle the Supply List
This seems like an obvious thing to do but, given the number of supplies on each child’s list, it can be an overwhelming task. Most schools send home the supply list weeks before school starts so that your child has everything he needs and hits the ground running when the doors open on the first day of school. One reason lists go home early is that many teachers like to guide their class to set up notebooks, folders, and binders the same way so students can easily organize material during the first few days of school. The best way to tackle your child’s supply list is to do it in two trips. While this may seem like it makes the task more complicated, each trip has a specific goal and will cut down the time spent in the store. For the first trip, have a family member or babysitter stay with your children while you head out alone. This allows you to get the basics, such as pencils, pens, binders, art supplies, and paper without little voices behind you asking numerous times “Can I get this pencil, too?” Although shopping alone will get the task done quickly, children typically get excited about picking out new supplies, which is why you will make a second trip. Encourage your child’s excitement about school by specifying two or three items he will be allowed to choose. These can be more personal items, such as backpacks, pencil cases, or folders. Separating the supply list into two separate trips with clear goals allows you to check items off your list quickly and efficiently while still allowing your child to be part of the process.

Attack the Pile of Paperwork
You likely have a mound of paperwork sitting in your house that needs to be completed by the first day of school. This may include medical forms, parent teacher organization materials, or activity registration forms. Allot a block of undisturbed time, perhaps after your child is asleep, to get through all the paperwork in one sitting. You may need to work on one child’s pile of paperwork each night to keep it organized. Once you have completed the paperwork, put it in the appropriate place, i.e. the mail or your child’s school folder. Completing the whole process of paperwork at one time, including the delivery of items, frees you from having the clutter hanging over your head.

Set Your Alarm
If you and your family have been enjoying the lazy days of summer by sleeping late, it’s time to break out the alarm clock. Morning can be a hectic time and getting sleepy students up and ready for school can be challenging. Start waking your child at the same time you will be waking him for school about a week before the first day. Start the morning schedule of eating breakfast, getting dressed, and brushing teeth, even if you don’t have anywhere to go. Children adapt quickly so they will get back in the swing of the morning routine and be ready to go on the first day of school. Also, remember that bedtime is crucial to the success of the morning schedule. A well-rested child is easier to guide and is much more compliant.

Organize Your Calendar
Organizing your calendar is an inexpensive and extremely effective way to maintain order and structure throughout the activity-packed school year. Have a family calendar on which all events are kept and keep it in a central location, such as the kitchen or family room. Encourage your child to reference the calendar each night to check for upcoming activities. For desk or hanging calendars, use colored pencils or erasable pens and assign one color to each member of your family. For calendars on your computer, cell phone, or PDA, use different color fonts. Assigning different colors keeps everyone’s activities clear and organized. It is also easy to read as you run by it on your way out the door! When you get hard copies of football schedules, karate lessons, or important school work, immediately put it on the calendar. You will spend less time looking for these important details and more time with your family.

Clean up!
Take some time to clean out frequently used spaces in the house, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and family rooms. Discard old or broken toys, cluttered decorative items, or unnecessary papers. If you have time, tackle your children’s closets and re-evaluate what clothing you will need to buy for the upcoming school year. Starting the year with a clean and organized space gives everyone a fresh perspective. It also allows you to take stock of items you already have and could save you money by avoiding buying duplicates.

Though summer is drawing to an end, there is still time for relaxing and regrouping. To celebrate the end of summer, invite some of your child’s friends and their parents over to toast some marshmallows or play a game in the backyard. Starting the year off connected to peers will help your child feel confident as he enters a new classroom. It also helps you stay connected with the parents of the children your son or daughter will be spending time with this school year.

Speak with your child about the upcoming year. Express your expectations and hopes and ask for her thoughts. She may be feeling nervous about entering a new school or new class or she may have questions about what her schedule will look like. As always, open and honest communication makes your child feel safe and confident, both factors that will positively impact her school year.

The important thing to remember is that back to school does not mean back to stress. Schedule down time for you and your children, especially at the beginning of the year, when schedules are likely jam-packed. You may need to be more creative and flexible about your break times but ensuring your family has a break is ensuring they have the energy to succeed throughout the school year.

Jennifer Cerbasi teaches at a public school for children on the autism spectrum in New Jersey. As a coordinator of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the home, she works with parents to create and implement behavioral plans for their children in an environment that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition to her work both in the classroom and at home, she is also a member of the National Association of Special Education Teachers and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Parents of every background, religion, and nationality have one common wish for their children: to remain healthy throughout their lives. Unfortunately, many parents are forced to face their worst fears when a child is diagnosed with a medical condition that requires ongoing treatment or specific care. This could include seizure disorders, diabetes, or life-threatening allergies. It could also include a developmental disability such as autism, in which case your child may not be able to communicate his pain or discomfort. Regardless of the condition, there are certain steps parents of children with specific medical needs should take to ensure proper care and immediate action.

Fill out school and activity medical forms in detail.
You may think these forms get stored away, never to be referenced again. School nurses, educators, and instructors will read these forms to make themselves aware of your child’s specific conditions and learn about their responsibilities regarding your child’s care. Ask to sit down with this person so you can go over the form together in case they have any questions beyond what is printed. These forms are also crucial for substitute nurses or teachers, in case your child requires care while under their supervision.

Provide your child with proper identification.
Some conditions could render your child without the ability to communicate to emergency medical responders. Consider various types of identification, such as necklaces, bracelets, or shoe tags that list the condition, doctors’ or parents’ phone numbers, or medication. Consider which one best fits your child’s needs. If your child will be spending a lot of time swimming at camp, the shoe tag may not be best as she won’t have her shoes with her most of the time. Younger children may fare better with a bracelet over a necklace as the necklace may be uncomfortable. Ask your child’s pediatrician about pertinent information to be printed on the identification tag.

Train everyone who works with your child.
This means bus drivers, camp counselors, coaches, scout leaders, babysitters, and religious education teachers. Explain to your child that you are doing this in order to keep her safe, not to parade her special needs. Knowing that everyone is prepared to help her should make her feel safe but keep in mind it could make her feel like she is in an unwanted spotlight. Consider speaking with her close friends about her needs so they can be aware of warning signs she is in danger. Be sensitive to your child’s feelings about her condition but assure her you are acting in her best interest. Have these conversations discreetly and remind caregivers of their commitment to confidentiality. Caregivers will have access to only the information that will keep your child safe.

Have a family emergency plan.
Some children have medical conditions that require a call for emergency medical attention. Create a plan for this occurrence and practice with your family frequently. Make sure everyone has a job in case your child requires immediate medical attention. Jobs could include opening the front door for emergency responders, calling a neighbor or other adult family member, or gathering all the siblings in another room. Seeing a family member in need of emergency care can be frightening but having a plan will reduce everyone’s anxiety.

Ask your child’s pediatrician or specialist for important tips to share with those working with your child. He may have brochures to share or other printed materials to provide your child’s caregivers and educators.

Communicate with your child about his condition but don’t make it the only topic of conversation. It is important for your child to be educated about his needs but it should never define him. The most important thing for you to remember is he is a child first. Never address him as “diabetic” or “autistic.” He is a child with diabetes or a child with autism. Addressing him this way is a sign of respect for him as an individual.

Having a child with ongoing medical needs can be frightening and stressful for a parent. Being prepared and informed will make you empowered and able to care for your child. Educating people who interact with your child will make you secure about her care in your absence and, for any parent, that feeling is priceless.

Jennifer Cerbasi teaches at a public school for children on the autism spectrum in New Jersey. As a coordinator of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the home, she works with parents to create and implement behavioral plans for their children in an environment that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition to her work both in the classroom and at home, she is also a member of the National Association of Special Education Teachers and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Children certainly need some rest and relaxation, but summer is a great time to work with your child without the pressure of his or her busy, school-year schedule. Often, parents express a lack of confidence when it comes to their own math skills and in turn, are hesitant to work with their child in this area. These simple tips will help you strengthen your child’s math skills now and throughout the school year.

Early Childhood
*Make math fun! Sorting, counting, and categorizing toys are all simple and fun ways to expose your child to math at an early age. When playing with blocks, identify and sort different colors and shapes. When coloring, ask your child to pass you different numbers of crayons. Find math in every day activities and show your young child how much fun math can be!

*Keep a calendar. Exposing your child to time concepts by utilizing a calendar will support him throughout his life. Identify the days of the week and teach your child to label yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Mark a special event on the calendar and count down the days as it drawers near. Specify when events are happening in relation to his daily routine. For example, “We will go to Grandma’s house after lunch.” Keeping a calendar not only exposes your child to time concepts but helps create structure.

Elementary School
*Check out your local teacher supply store. There are many pre-made materials that you can use at home, such as board games, flash cards, and other manipulatives. Playing a game such as Multiplication Bingo once a week will help your child maintain her multiplication facts in a unique way. Most of these materials are categorized by age so you will easily match the materials with your child’s needs. If you are looking for an inexpensive way to have access to materials teachers use, scan the  store for ideas and see if you can make some of these materials at home. Index cards and markers are an inexpensive alternative to store-bought flashcards.

*Give your child an allowance. Managing money is a math skill your child should learn early. He should learn to save money, become familiar with the cost of items, and make decisions about purchases. After making a purchase, he can count the change and make sure he got the correct amount back. Helping your child become comfortable with money is a skill that will last a life time and make a clear impact on his success as an adult.

Middle School
*Leave your child a to-do list. Word problems are a source of weakness for many children so having your child attend to written language will sharpen her attention to detail and order of directions. Make your lists fun, and even a little silly, by giving directions like “Make your bed. Jump up and down three times. Put your shoes in the closet.” As always, bringing humor into learning will make the experience more enjoyable.

*Review tests and quizzes together. Not all teachers have children correct their errors but you can use this opportunity to look at where the errors occurred and help your child learn from his mistakes. Mistakes, as we all know, are invaluable opportunities for learning.

High School
*Host study sessions. Teenagers often crave independence and establishing their own homework routines is one common source of conflict between them and their parents. Inviting your child’s classmates over for a study session creates a fun way to ensure your child is getting her homework done. It also provides an opportunity for students to “tutor” each other: if one child is unsure of how to solve a problem, another student can explain it. Provide healthy snacks and a good work space and check in on the work session periodically.

*Put your teen to work! Encourage him or her to get a part-time job. Many jobs, such as working in a grocery sore, retail store, or movie theater, offer real life experience with math skills such as making change, monitoring inventory, and discounting sale items. Children this age often begin to ask “When am I going to use this skill in real life?” Applying these skills from an early age is motivating and reinforces that classroom work can be beneficial outside of the classroom.

Another great way to incorporate math skills for children of any age is to get in the kitchen and start cooking! Reading a recipe, measuring ingredients, and timing the completion of your creation are all math skills in action. Your child will be so proud of her work she won’t even realize you just taught a math lesson!

The most important factor for helping your child is to get over your own fear of math. Remember that making mistakes is part of learning and showing your child how to work through a problem is also an essential skill. If you are stuck, consult the textbook, your child’s notes, or contact the teacher and ask for help. Teachers will appreciate you asking for help!

Jennifer Cerbasi teaches at a public school for children on the autism spectrum in New Jersey. As a coordinator of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the home, she works with parents to create and implement behavioral plans for their children in an environment that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition to her work both in the classroom and at home, she is also a member of the National Association of Special Education Teachers and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Your child will likely face many transitions in her life, but entering middle school, high school, and college are undoubtedly three of the biggest. Each brings the possibilities of new friendships and experiences but also more independence and autonomy which, as most parents know, is not always a smooth road for young adults.

The key is to remember that they are just that — young adults — and now is the time to start preparing your child for the challenges and situations she will surely face throughout her life. Balancing a social life and daily responsibilities as well as money management are keys to a successful future and supporting your child as she develops these skills is important. Make sure she knows you are always there to offer guidance and use these tips as your child transitions through three of the most crucial times in her educational and social development.

Middle School:

Assist with summer reading
Your middle school student will likely be tested on his summer reading when he returns to school in September. Help set a weekly goal for summer reading then step back and allow him to follow through. Earning extra allowance or earning an extra half hour on curfew one night may motivate your child to get his work done, but if you have an agreement and he breaks it, it is important that he not get the reward. While this may seem harsh, it is a great lesson in following through for your middle school student. Middle school teachers are looking for your child to complete work independently and there are consequences for not doing so. His grades could be lowered or he could have to stay after school to complete work. Setting up a system where your child is reinforced for completing work without you hounding him will get him ready for more responsibilities come September.

Strengthen the lines of communication
Your middle school student is about to enter a socially-challenging time. Middle school often proves to be students least favorite years in school, as children’s bodies, preferences, and attitudes are changing and peers are quick to judge. While girls tend to use more verbal or non-verbal approaches and boys tend to use more physical means, bullying is common at this age in both genders. Clearly- and often- remind your child that you are there to listen. Knowing that Mom or Dad is a phone call away is very comforting for a child who is entering young adulthood and unsure of her steps. Repeatedly tell your child that you are proud of her, you love her, and that you are always there for her. Although children at this age often don’t seem to be listening, they are. Make sure you let her know she can count on you and she may just call in that favor.

High School:

Set clear expectations for social outings
This is again a time when your child is likely to test his boundaries and break the rules you have set. Be clear on what you expect of him, whether it be a curfew, who he is allowed to be in the car with, or where he is permitted to go. Some parents offer a half hour added to curfew each school year. Whatever your rules are, be clear on them and the consequences of breaking them. If you say he is going to be grounded for a weekend if he breaks curfew, then he needs to be grounded if he comes home late. If your child knows you are serious, he is going to consider his choices with you in mind. If he knows you are going to bend the rules or change them midway through, he is going to see what he can get away with. Be clear, be firm, and be proud when he follows the rules!

Help choose extra-curricular activities
High school is a time when children try different sports, clubs, or activities in an effort to establish their own identity. Make sure your child understands the time commitment involved in each club or sport she is interested in and how this will affect her studies. The workload in high school is often more time consuming than middle school and this may be a difficult adjustment for her. Most coaches or advisors will have meetings in the beginning of the year to give important information out, such as schedules of practices and games, financial commitments, and expectations for the season. Get a copy of any paperwork handed out and review it with your child. Decide on activities that allow study time and some down time, which is often neglected during these years.

College:

Pack Up!
Many home goods stores and department stores now have generic packing lists for incoming college freshman. This is a great starting point so you don’t miss out on important items, like a shower caddy, flip flops, and a bathrobe. (As any college sophomore will tell you, these items are life savers, especially for co-ed dorms!) Also, have your child contact the housing department at his college to see if there are any larger items he will need to bring, such as a microwave or a small refrigerator. Most schools have clear rules on what is allowed in dorm rooms and many offer rentals of such equipment at a reasonable fee. There is much to be said of having the comforts of home while away for the first time!

Encourage your child to be a savvy saver
One of the biggest pitfalls of college students in America today is the credit card. The average student comes out of college carrying between $3,000 and $7,000 worth of credit card debt, in addition to an average $21,000 in student loans. Encouraging your child to have a summer job and save money to use during the semester may help him avoid applying for and overusing a credit card. You may want to consider having one for your child with a low limit for emergencies but speak to him about the dangers a credit card can bring. Using cash is still the best way to go for a young adult away from home for the first time as it lowers the temptation to overspend.

Throughout each of these transitions, remember to praise your child for all the good things he does and all the ways he makes you proud. Surely he won’t get through middle school, high school, or college without a few missteps, but being there to support him will certainly guide him in the right direction.

Jennifer Cerbasi teaches at a public school for children on the autism spectrum in New Jersey. As a coordinator of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the home, she works with parents to create and implement behavioral plans for their children in an environment that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition to her work both in the classroom and at home, she is also a member of the National Association of Special Education Teachers and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

For many parents across the country, this fall will be their first time sending a child to school. Early childhood education has evolved, and educators and researchers are looking at this first introduction to formalized education as a crucial time for students.

There is more direct instruction in math, reading and writing, with schools utilizing a detailed curriculum to address skills. Story time now accompanies formal reading instruction. In some schools, play time may now even accompany formal social skills lessons. Although September seems far away, now is the time to start preparing your child for his or her first school experience.

Here are some simple and fun ways to get your child ready for preschool and kindergarten:

Preschool

Reading
Read to your child every day. Exposing your child to a variety of age-appropriate books will foster a natural love of reading and curiosity about words. Don’t worry about teaching phonics or decoding skills — the ABC song will suffice for now. Children will often ask what a word or sentence says. Feel free to tell him, but do not press him to repeat or try to sound out words. Keep in mind that at this age your child should have a natural excitement about words and should not feel he is being “tested’ when enjoying a good book!  

Teach your child to recognize her name. You can make a special sign for her bedroom door or write her name in the cover of her books. Learning names and common words (such as store names) is a first step in recognizing and pronouncing letters and sounds.

Math
Count objects while playing with your child. Use his blocks, books, or other toys and model one-to-one correspondence. Counting “one, two, three blocks!” naturally introduces this important math skill to your child.

Expose your child to basic shapes. When reading or watching a TV show, point out circles, squares, or triangles. Many TV shows targeting the preschool-age child highlight these shapes as well as rectangles, hearts, and diamonds. It is very easy to find these shapes in the environment and you can create a scavenger hunt with your child to locate these common shapes in the environment.

Social Skills
Schedule play dates or spend time playing at the park. Sharing, turn-taking, and waiting are all skills your child will need to enjoy a positive social experience in preschool and may be practiced when engaging with peers.

Develop a daily schedule and stick with it. Keep in mind your soon-to-be preschooler likely needs 10-12 hours of sleep a night, so get him to bed on time at night. Wake him in the morning, have breakfast, and get dressed even if you are not planning to leave the house right away. These morning activities are clear ways to signify the start of the day for your child.

Check with your child’s preschool in regards to its rules on potty training Many schools require children to be potty-trained before starting in September. If your child is not yet fully trained, you have plenty of time this summer to work on it!

Kindergarten

Reading
Help your child practice writing his name, especially if he has shown an interest in it. Have him write the first letter then you can write the other letters. You can also write his name first then have him trace it. Keep in mind constant practice or repetitions may discourage your child and frustrate him, ultimately delaying his acquisition of this skill. Make it fun and only practice if your child shows interest.

Point out words that start with the letter of her first name. Although she may not be aware of it, she knows the sound that letter makes and it will be easier for her to associate items with a sound she already knows. Say “Grace, do you want grapes for snack? Grapes sounds like Grace!” See if your child can think of another word that starts with the same sound. If she has trouble, provide an example so she does not get discouraged and the game continues to be fun!

Math
Ask your child to retrieve various quantities of items for you. Have him help you set the table for dinner and ask “Please get four napkins.” This is a fun and easy way to practice counting, a skill that will be targeted throughout Kindergarten.

Model sorting items for your child then ask her to practice. While playing, say “I’m putting all the cows over here and the pigs over here.” Then ask your child to put all the chickens together, and so on. Grouping or sorting is an important pre-math skill for your child to attain.

Social Skills
Maintain a schedule. If your child just finished preschool, he is likely used to a routine that involves getting up in the morning and getting ready for school. Maintain a similar schedule this summer so back-to-school time doesn’t involve early morning chaos!

Give your child orally-presented directions. For example, tell your child “Get the blue block and give it to Daddy.” Having your child follow one and two step directions prepares her to process language as well as comply with known instructions, skills necessary for kindergarten.

When playing with peers or siblings, ensure your child is taking turns with toys and games. Your child could be in a class of 20 children come September and will have to take turns with materials and toys every day. Preparing him to wait will make it easier for him in his class in the fall.

The most important thing you can do to prepare your child for school is to make learning a fun and natural family activity. Drills and repetitious practice of skills at this age may develop stress and fear of school in your child. Introducing simple math, reading, and social skills to your child will get him started on the path to success!

Jennifer Cerbasi teaches at a public school for children on the autism spectrum in New Jersey. As a coordinator of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the home, she works with parents to create and implement behavioral plans for their children in an environment that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition to her work both in the classroom and at home, she is also a member of the National Association of Special Education Teachers and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

As the summer begins, most children are looking forward to days spent at summer camp, playing basketball at the local park, or swimming at a friend’s house. As children get older, they tend to spend less time at home, making it difficult to get summer reading lists started. Use this list to engage your child in compelling books. Some are found on summer reading lists across the country and others are on my personal list of favorites.
 

Entering 6th Grade
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
Red Badge of Courage by Steven Crane
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery

Entering 7th Grade
Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Entering 8th Grade
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
Summer of My German Soldier by Betty Greene

Entering 9th Grade
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

Entering 10th Grade
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
The Natural by Bernard Malamud

Entering 11th Grade
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

Entering 12th Grade
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest By Ken Kesey
A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess
Hamlet by William Shakespeare

Books for All Ages
You will most likely be monitoring your child’s progress in their summer reading list. There are certain books I can read over and over, and find something new to love every time. Here are a few suggestions for the adult looking to check in with childhood memories or to share with your middle-school aged children for the first time.

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

As students get older, summer reading takes on a different focus. Students will most likely be tested or expected to write an essay on material when they return to school in September. One way to help your child retain information is to buy a nice journal or notebook for her to take notes in. This inexpensive show of support is a simple way to help her organize her thoughts and refer back to them when school starts.

Since your child may be more inclined to go the mall this summer than to sit down with a book, you can set up a “reading date” for the two of you to get together and read. Get an iced coffee or go to your favorite park and discuss the book. You can read the book then rent the movie and compare the two. Being an active part in your child’s summer reading experience is a crucial factor in his success.

Reinforcing your child’s commitment to reading can also include an award. The Minnesota 529 College Savings Plan and Minnesota libraries announced on June 12 they would be running a sweepstakes for students participating in Minnesota’s 2009 Summer Reading Program at local libraries. 15 winners will receive $1,000 each to be used towards their college education. Check your local department of education websites for other summer reading programs.

The most important thing you can do to support your child’s summer reading is to have them start as soon as possible. Waiting until the week before school starts to open the book means your child will rush through and miss important details of the story. Taking notes and having frequent discussions about the book will ensure your child remembers the storyline come September.

Jennifer Cerbasi teaches at a public school for children on the autism spectrum in New Jersey. As a coordinator of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the home, she works with parents to create and implement behavioral plans for their children in an environment that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition to her work both in the classroom and at home, she is also a member of the National Association of Special Education Teachers and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Thoughts of summer often include swimming all day, eating ice cream, and chasing fireflies at night. These days, thoughts of summer also include summer reading lists for students across America. Schools require students to read over the summer in order to maintain their reading skills. For students in upper elementary school, teachers may even assign projects to be completed in conjunction with the summer reading or at the start of the school year.  Educators also want reading to be enjoyable and summer offers an opportunity for the less-than-enthusiastic reader to fall in love with a new style or author without the stress of being tested or writing essays in response to the text.

Below find some suggestions for students entering Kindergarten through 5th grade. Some are common to grade-level reading lists across the country. Others are personal favorites that have solidified my love of reading that began in elementary school. Use this list as a starting point to open your child to an amazing and adventurous world, available to him simply by turning a page.

Entering Kindergarten
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
Stagestruck by Tomie dePaola
Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate

Entering 1st Grade
Beatrice Doesn’t Want To by Laura Numeroff
Frog and Toad series by Arnold Lobel
Henry and Mudge series by Cynthia Rylant

Entering 2nd Grade
Amelia Bedelia series by Peggy Parish
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst
Horrible Harry series by Suzy Kline

Entering 3rd Grade
Cam Jansen series by David A. Adler
Junie B. Jones series by Barbara Park
Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne

Entering 4th Grade
Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlin
Frindle by Andrew Clements
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of N.I.M.H. by Robert C. O’Brien

Entering 5th Grade
The Upstairs Room by Johanna Reiss
The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare
The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

Students in elementary school are typically reading in the summer to support their reading skills and will most likely not be tested on material. This takes the pressure of your child to recall each and every detail and truly read for fun. Regardless of his grade level, you can encourage your child by designating family reading time each day. You could read to your child, take turns reading, or read your own novel, newspaper, or magazine while your children reads independently. You can also choose books that correlate to your summer activities, such as Camping Out by Mercer Mayer or Curious George Goes to the Beach by H.A. Rey and Margaret Rey. Making connections between the text and her own experiences is an important skill for your child to develop.

In addition to the list your school most likely gave you, libraries are another source for great summer reading. If the book you want has already been borrowed, the librarian will be able to recommend an author or book from the same genre.

Check your department of education’s website for curriculum guidelines. The California Department of Education website has a search engine for suggested summer reading, allowing you to search by criteria such as grade level, genre, curriculum connections, and awards that author or book may have won.

Although many of these novels have been developed into movies, encourage your child to read the book first. This provides an opportunity for discussion, in which your child can compare her visions from the book to those on screen.

The most important tip for summer reading is to check with your child’s teacher regarding her current reading level. Choosing books that are below her reading level will prove to be boring and choosing those above will present a challenge that may result in frustration and resistance to read.

Jennifer Cerbasi teaches at a public school for children on the autism spectrum in New Jersey. As a coordinator of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the home, she works with parents to create and implement behavioral plans for their children in an environment that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition to her work both in the classroom and at home, she is also a member of the National Association of Special Education Teachers and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

With more and more women starting families later in life, and the use of fertility treatments becoming more common, the rate of multiples has risen in the last 20 years. As these pregnancies become more commonplace, doctors, parents, and educators continue to learn more about the health and development of these children.

I had the unique experience of babysitting male triplets from the time they were 5 years old. They are now 16, and still a part of  my life — though I no longer have the task of supervising them. As they grow into young men, they continue to teach me the joys — and stresses — of raising multiples. In addition, I have two friends who had the pleasure of giving birth to triplets. Using my interaction with all three families as a source for inspiration, the tired and proud parents and I created these tips for parents of multiples.

Establish routines.
This is your number one stress-minimizing strategy, and should remain a priority throughout your multiples’ lives. Establishing a routine means you must be prepared. This comes in many forms: Having clothing, bottles and diapers always available is a necessity. Establishing feeding, bedtime and daily routines creates a sense of structure and security for your children, as well as allowing you time to get things done around the house. Without structure, you will quickly feel you are either bathing or feeding your children 24 hours a day.

Ask a friend or family member to document important events.
When you are caring for multiples, your main concern is the children’s primary needs such as food, clothing and sleep. You are less likely to worry about taking pictures of them coming home and documenting all the important “firsts” that parents like to record. Asking a close friend or family member to keep baby books or photo albums will help take the stress off you to organize those cherished memories. When asked if she thought this was a good tip, one mother of multiples said “I wish I thought of that! I barely have any pictures of their early years!”

Bond with each of your children.
This may be tricky, considering you are still working on establishing a routine. Use feeding and bath time as a good opportunity to connect with your children individually. They will no doubt feel a close connection to each other as multiples, but establishing individuality and unique bonds with you and your spouse is equally as important.

Take care of yourself.
A recent study in the April issue of Pediatrics showed that women who give birth to multiples are 43 percent more likely to suffer from postpartum depression than women who give birth to a single child. Talk with your spouse about how you can both stay healthy before and after the babies are born. A friend of mine who has 16-year-old triplets says a woman stopped her in the hallway at her last doctor’s visit before the boys were born. She said “Always feed yourself first.” She went on to explain this meant physically, emotionally and spiritually. “Feeding” yourself is necessary in order to provide for the other members of your family.

Ask for help.
It may mean asking for help establishing breastfeeding routines in the early days or asking family members or friends to help with rides to soccer practice when they are eight. You are going to need help with multiples! Do not be ashamed to say you need a helping hand — your family and friends will most likely understand and be willing to switch your laundry, drop off a meal or listen to your concerns in order to be there for you and your children.

Preparing for and raising multiples is a unique experience, one that only another parent of multiples can truly understand. Look online for local support groups to find guidance from those who have been through this experience before or are living it now. These parents may be able to tell you where the best playgrounds for multiples are in your area. (As one parent of multiple describes: The best playgrounds for multiples are ones that are completely fenced in!) You may establish close friendships with other parents that last a lifetime!

Finding a babysitter or caregiver for multiples can be challenging. If you don’t have family or friends that can help out, you will need to look for someone who is energetic and organized — the two main features of a successful caregiver to multiples. This is also where a support group comes in handy — references are a must!

Your pediatrician or neonatal specialist will be an important source of information and guidance for you. Multiples may have specific health care needs that singletons don’t. Make a list of questions prior to appointments so you don’t forget what you wanted to ask. You may need to bring along an extra friend or family member to document the doctor’s responses, as you will surely have a lot on  your plate, and may not be able to remember everything he or she says.

But the most important thing to remember when raising multiples: You are multiply blessed!

Jennifer Cerbasi teaches at a public school for children on the autism spectrum in New Jersey. As a coordinator of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the home, she works with parents to create and implement behavioral plans for their children in an environment that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition to her work both in the classroom and at home, she is also a member of the National Association of Special Education Teachers and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Most adults remember being bullied or witnessing bullying during their school days. Most current students cite the same experience, but how bullying is being handled has changed.

Bullying has become a top priority for schools across the country, and many are working hard to prevent it. Bullying is the repeated imposition of power from one child to another and can include verbal threats or insults, physical threats or abuse, or non-verbal threats or abuse, such as spreading rumors about another child. It’s important to know that this can take place in person or via the internet, such as through social networking sites. 

Boys and girls typically bully differently. Boys typically resort to more physical methods, while girls typically utilize verbal strategies, although it is not uncommon for each group to use other approaches. Signs your child is being bullied include becoming quiet or withdrawn, frequent trips to the nurse’s office, refusal to go to school, and withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities, such as teams or social groups. Acting out is not typically associated with children who are being bullied. As a parent, knowing your child is being targeted is one of the most painful and difficult things you can encounter.

Here are some tips to help guide your child through this complicated time:

Be supportive.
Listen to your child as he shares his experience and feelings about being bullied. Praise him for speaking about the situation, especially if he was brave enough to approach you without prompting. Children who are bullied are often afraid to report their situations for fear of retribution for “tattling.” By opening up, he has begun the process of ending the bullying and should be reinforced for doing so.

Build confidence.
Find activities that build your child’s confidence and occupy her time. Individual sports, such as karate or swimming, may be best to start with as your child may worry about becoming a part of a team and opening herself to more uncomfortable social situations.

Contact your child’s school.
Even if the bullying has not taken place on school grounds, it is important that staff is aware of the relationship between your child and the person or people who are intimidating him. Many schools have videos or books on bullying that they can share with you and your child. You can also establish a safe place for your child to go if he feels he is being threatened, such as the principal’s office or the guidance counselor’s office.

Use the buddy system.
Encourage your child to seek one or two safe friends at school and stick with them, especially during times bullying is most likely to occur, such as recess and traveling to and from school. Establish relationships with the parents of your child’s friends and make them aware of the situation.  If bullying typically occurs during the trips to and from school, drive your child or ask a neighbor or friend to do so. Although this step alone may not end the bullying, it provides your child with a bit more security and safety.

Stay involved.
Have access to your children’s email and social networking accounts so you can monitor their activity. Your child could be bullied while sitting right in your living room. Knowing your child’s circle of friends will also help you monitor appropriate or inappropriate relationships, and will help you keep track of friendships that are deteriorating. You can broach the subject by saying “I notice you are not hanging out with (name) much anymore. Why is that?”  If your child does not give you a direct reason, there may be more to the story.

Many professionals frown upon advising children to ignore the bullying, as it sends the message that adults will ignore it too. If you are still unsure of what to say to your child and feel you need more extensive support, seek the help of a health care professional, such as a psychologist or social worker.

Bullying is not just “kids being kids.” It is hurtful, unhealthy, and has the potential to cause long-term emotional and physical damage. Being informed and involved may save your child from this painful situation.

Jennifer Cerbasi teaches at a public school for children on the autism spectrum in New Jersey. As a coordinator of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the home, she works with parents to create and implement behavioral plans for their children in an environment that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition to her work both in the classroom and at home, she is also a member of the National Association of Special Education Teachers and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Communicating with your children can be a daunting task, whether you are trying to impart morals and values on them or simply trying to get information about the date of the school concert. One parent says she feels “like we speak different languages!” The most common complaint from parents about communicating with their children? Asking “How was school?” and getting “Good” in return. If you’re laughing because you’ve had that interaction before, use these tips for opening up the lines of communication between you and your child.

Spend time together every day
This may mean sitting together for dinner, watching a TV show together, or saying a prayer as a family before bedtime. Any time your child feels connected to the whole family his feelings of trust and security are strengthened. Time spent traveling in the car doesn’t count! Although we are all very busy, find a few moments to sit face to face with your family and talk about the day’s events.

Schedule individual time
Scheduling “Mom and Child” or “Dad and Child” time allows your more reserved child an opportunity to open up. It gives you a chance to really attend to your child’s body language and facial expressions, which can often relay more than just her words can. Scheduling one on one time shows that you value your child’s individuality and are willing to take time out to give her your undivided attention.

Stay current
You don’t need to watch Saturday morning cartoons each week or lock the radio on the pop station you dislike, but keep in touch with your child’s interests in music, television, and fashion. The less you know about your child’s day-to-day activities, the more distant a figure you are for him. This also gives you an opportunity to monitor the appropriateness of what they are viewing and may lead to more discussions. Remember to give him some personal freedom- hovering can drive children to become more withdrawn.

Share your problems
For example, say you made plans to go to a movie with one friend but forgot and made plans to go for coffee with another friend the same day. Ask your child to help you problem solve. Who should you reschedule with and what should you say? Never give specific examples or use names; we know children have trouble keeping secrets and you don’t want your business all over town. You can also share problems you had when you were a child. This shows your child that everyone has decisions they struggle with and makes you more relatable in their eyes.

Keep a diary
Have a journal in which you and your child can write notes to each other. You can have a special hiding spot so only the two of you know where it is. This prevents the temptation for siblings to sneak information that was not meant to be shared. You can write happy thoughts like “I thought about our last vacation today” or questions like “How are you feeling about Friday’s math test?” This gives your child the chance to think about her response or ask difficult questions she may not want to ask in person.

Whenever opening a conversation with your child ask specific questions, such as “What was your least favorite thing you did at school today?” or “Tell me one friend you played with today.” A lot of things happened at school today; asking for one detail allows your child to recall a specific event and may allow the conversation to expand.

Having open communication does not mean you are your child’s friend. You are still the parent and you still have to discipline when they make poor choices. The idea is that open communication offers your children the opportunity to share their problems with you and look to you as someone who can help them make good decisions.

Jennifer Cerbasi teaches at a public school for children on the autism spectrum in New Jersey. As a coordinator of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the home, she works with parents to create and implement behavioral plans for their children in an environment that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition to her work both in the classroom and at home, she is also a member of the National Association of Special Education Teachers and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.