Parenting tips: Creating afterschool routines that work

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Tuesday, August 17, 2021

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Parenting tips: Creating afterschool routines that work

Juli Chastaine, jchastaine@stph.org

(Stock photo)

It's that time again – back to school! While we rejoice that our children have returned to the excitement of learning, many parents also cringe at the thought of afterschool meltdowns, homework struggles and bedtime tantrums.

Here are some tips that can help.

  1. Involve your children in creating a routine. School-agers are just beginning to grasp the concept of time management. Taking the time to include them in establishing an afterschool plan can make a huge difference. Offer as many choices as possible as often as possible.  Choosing what's to have for a snack, where to eat it and whether they prefer a bath or shower can zap the power struggle before it starts.
  2. Resist the urge to overschedule. Young children need plenty of time to relax and play freely.  If possible, limit afterschool activities and commitments to just a couple of days of week. While it's tempting to say yes to every opportunity that presents itself, nightly afterschool lessons coupled with homework requirements often cut into much-needed family and play time. Choose carefully to create a healthy balance.
  3. Make time for healthy food and plenty of sleep. Children need balanced, predictable meals and adequate amounts of rest – something that can be difficult to achieve during the busy school year. Strive to eat dinner at the table with your child each night. Choose foods that fuel, and limit sugar, while trying to wind kids down for bed.
  4. Attack homework – together. Create a plan with your child for completing homework. A dedicated work space and materials without distractions is best, but don't be afraid to try out creative options! Math facts can be practiced while singing, and studying for a spelling test while jumping rope can be fun! Help children plan for the completion of projects well before the expected due date with a simple, easily accessible calendar.
  5. Manage meltdowns. It's not unusual for meltdowns to increase once children return home from school.  A combination of exhaustion, extra stimulation and exerting self-control over a long period of time can contribute to an emotional collapse once they return home. Children often vent those big feelings to the people who love them most. Approach your child calmly, and don’t attempt to argue them out of a bad mood. Many kids need some downtime before discussing their day or attempting to complete homework.


Juli Chastain, a mother of twins, holds a master’s degree in counseling. She has served on the education staff at The Parenting Center since June 2019.

 

Are you struggling with a parenting issue or concern? St Tammany Health System’s Parenting Center is here to help. Call (985) 898-4435 for more information or to schedule a parent coaching appointment. Below, find some of the upcoming offerings on The Parenting Center schedule.

Infant Child CPR

Wednesday, Aug. 25; 6 to 8 p.m.
Gain knowledge and skills needed for choking and breathing emergencies that may arise with your child, family member or anyone in your presence.

Play and Learn

For children 2½ to 4 years; Tuesday, Sept. 13; 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Parents and children, come shake and groove through music along with plenty of playing, learning and movement! 

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