Navigating the High School Transition: How Are You Doing?
As September comes to a close and the first month of high school wraps up, it’s a good moment to reflect: How are you doing with the transition? This phase is not just a big step for your child—it’s a transition for you as well. Whether your teen entered high school as a pre-teen or already a teenager, the shift brings changes that impact the whole family. While your child may seem more independent, they still need your guidance in ways that may surprise you. For many parents, this shift can feel like your child no longer needs you as much. They might not ask for help with every little thing, and they’re studying subjects like physics or chemistry that feel far beyond what you remember from school. But even if the content feels unfamiliar, your role as a parent is still vital—and possibly even more so now that they’re in high school. Supporting Academically When the Content Feels Challenging You don’t need to be a content area expert to help your child thrive academically. Even if you’re not up to speed on their coursework, you can still be a key part of their academic success:
Offering Holistic Support: Social, Emotional, and Behavioral While academics are important, the social and emotional side of high school can be just as significant—and this is where your support is essential. Your child is not only tackling more challenging subjects but also navigating new friendships, peer pressures, and emotional highs and lows. Here’s how you can help:
Remember, They Still Need You—Just in Different Ways It’s natural to feel like your child doesn’t need you as much now that they’re in high school. But the reality is, they need your support in new, more subtle ways. They may not ask for help with every homework assignment or daily task, but they still rely on your guidance as they navigate this important stage of life. Your involvement is still essential, even if it looks different than when they were younger. By staying engaged in their academic, social, and emotional lives, you can help them not only transition smoothly into high school but also set them up for success throughout these formative years. So, as you and your child settle into this new school year, remember that your presence, encouragement, and support are just as valuable as ever.
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As the first week of school begins, excitement and nerves are in the air. It's a fresh start, a clean slate, and the perfect time to encourage our children to set goals for the academic year. Goal setting isn’t just a skill for adults; it’s something that children can benefit from immensely, and starting early sets the stage for lifelong success. By teaching our kids to set and work towards their goals, we give them the tools they need to take charge of their own progress, both in school and in life.
What Are Goals, and Why Do They Matter? A goal is simply something we aim to achieve—a target we set for ourselves to get better at something or to accomplish something new. For children, goals can be as simple as reading a certain number of books, mastering a new skill in a favorite sport, or even making a new friend. When children set goals, they learn to focus, manage their time, and take responsibility for their actions. They develop a sense of purpose and direction, which can boost their confidence and motivation. Achieving a goal, no matter how small, provides a sense of accomplishment that encourages them to keep trying and keep growing. In essence, goal setting empowers children to become active participants in their own success. The Benefits of Setting Goals Early On Starting goal setting at a young age has numerous benefits:
Goals Aren’t Just About Academics When we think about goal setting, our minds might jump to academics, healthy habits, or behavior—areas where we naturally want to see our children excel. However, it’s just as important to encourage goal setting in areas they’re passionate about. Whether your child is interested in art, sports, music, or even video games, setting goals in these areas can help them develop their skills and keep them engaged and motivated. For example, if your child loves drawing, a goal could be to learn a new drawing technique or to create a certain number of pieces by the end of the month. If they’re into soccer, maybe they’d like to improve their dribbling skills or score a certain number of goals this season. By aligning goals with their interests, you’re not only supporting their passions but also teaching them how to turn their dreams into achievable plans. A Simple Framework: Three Key Ideas to Guide Goal Setting To help your child get started with goal setting, sit down together and explore these three key ideas:
As parents, we have the unique opportunity to guide our children as they embark on a new school year full of potential and possibilities. By helping them set meaningful goals, we can foster their growth, not just academically, but in all areas of their lives. So, take a moment to chat with your child this week, explore their dreams, and work together to set them on a path to success. Here’s to a school year filled with achievement, growth, and endless possibilities!
Effective teaching practices are essential in the teaching of reading. Yesterday I had the opportunity to work with the teachers at the Iris Stubbs Primary School in South Caicos.
In our session, the Fundamentals of Reading Instruction, we focused on understanding The Science of Reading and refreshing our approach to:
This evening I had the opportunity to speak to the Roteract Club of Providenciales. We explored what it means to have a positive and healthy team dynamic and how they can nurture one within their organization. We had a great evening! All the best Rotaract PLS!
Yesterday I had the pleasure of working with the administration and staff at A. Louise Thomas Garland High School in Providenciales. We spent the morning exploring Team Building for Educators. tâs easy in back-to-school prep to focus on the essentials needed for a dynamic year of teaching and learningâ¦however, we canât forget the importance of building a positive team dynamic on our teaching staffs.
During our session explored the following topics...and played a few team building games.
I can already hear the back-to-school rumblings from some of my children (who shall remain nameless!). How is it going in your homes? I know this time of year can be a mix of excitement, nerves, and, let’s be honest, a bit of chaos as we all prepare for the school year ahead. As we approach the first day of school, it’s so important to start easing into those routines that will set our children up for success. The more prepared they feel, the smoother the transition will be—not just for them, but for all of us as well. Establishing routines before the first day can make a world of difference, helping kids adjust to the new schedule and mindset with less stress. To help you navigate this week, here are five tips to ensure your kids get started on the best foot: 1. Gradually Adjust Sleep Schedules: Start adjusting bedtime and wake-up times to align more closely with the school schedule. This gradual shift helps children adapt without the shock of an abrupt change on the first day. A consistent sleep routine ensures they’re well-rested and ready to learn. 2. Set Up a Designated Homework/Study Area: Create a quiet, organized space for your child to do homework or study. Having a dedicated spot free from distractions can help them focus better and develop good study habits from the start. 3. Review Morning and Evening Routines: Go over the morning and evening routines with your kids. Make sure they know what needs to be done each day, from packing their bags to setting out clothes for the next day. Establishing a smooth routine now can reduce morning stress and evening rush. 4. Plan Healthy Lunches and Snacks: Start planning and discussing lunch and snack options with your kids. Involving them in the process can make them more excited about their meals and ensure they have the nutrition they need to stay energized throughout the school day. 5. Talk About Expectations and Goals: Have a conversation with your children about the upcoming school year. Discuss their goals, any anxieties they might have, and what they’re looking forward to. Setting positive expectations and addressing concerns can help them start the year with confidence and a clear mindset. As we all gear up for the school year, remember that a little preparation can go a long way in making the transition smoother for everyone. Here’s to a successful and stress-free start to the school year! It’s been a while since we last connected—July was a whirlwind of activity, and August provided a much-needed break to recharge and reflect. As we approach the final week of summer for teachers here in the Turks and Caicos Islands, I wanted to take a moment to reconnect and share some insights as we gear up for the new school year. Starting a new school year is always a mix of excitement and apprehension. Even if everything isn’t falling perfectly into place, there are several strategies you can use to set a positive tone and ensure a successful beginning. Here are some tips to help you start off the year on the right foot, even if everything isn’t exactly as you would like it to be: 1. Set Clear and Achievable Goals: Before stepping into your classroom, take some time to set clear, achievable goals for yourself and your students. These goals can be related to classroom management, academic achievements, or personal development. Having a focused vision will guide your efforts and keep you motivated throughout the year. 2. Organize and Plan: Effective planning is key to a smooth start. Use this final week to organize your classroom, prepare lesson plans, and arrange necessary materials. Even if some aspects of your setup aren’t ideal, a structured plan will help you feel more prepared and in control. 3. Embrace Flexibility: While having a plan is essential, flexibility is equally important. Things might not always go as expected, and that’s okay. Being adaptable will help you navigate unexpected challenges with a positive attitude and maintain a productive learning environment. 4. Foster a Positive Classroom Environment: From day one, create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for your students. Develop classroom routines that promote respect and collaboration. Building strong relationships with your students will enhance their engagement and make your classroom a place where everyone feels valued. 5. Prioritize Self-Care: Teaching can be demanding, so don’t forget to take care of yourself. Establish a routine that includes time for relaxation and activities you enjoy. Balancing your professional and personal life will help you stay energized and focused throughout the year. 6. Involve Parents and Guardians Early: Engage with parents and guardians from the start to build a strong partnership in supporting student success. Send out introductory letters, schedule meetings, and encourage open communication. Involving families early helps create a supportive network for your students. 7. Stay Informed and Innovative: Keep yourself updated on new teaching strategies and educational tools. Incorporate innovative practices into your lessons to keep your students engaged and enhance their learning experiences. Professional development and staying curious about new methods can invigorate your teaching approach. 8. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly reflect on your teaching practices and student progress. Be open to making adjustments based on what’s working and what isn’t. Continuous improvement is a hallmark of effective teaching and will help you better meet the needs of your students. 9. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate the small successes along the way. Whether it’s a breakthrough with a student or a successful lesson, recognizing these moments can boost your morale and keep you motivated. 10. Connect with Colleagues: Build and maintain a support network with fellow teachers. Sharing experiences, advice, and encouragement with colleagues can provide valuable insights and help you feel less isolated in your teaching journey. As we prepare to head back to school, let’s embrace the excitement and challenges that come with it. By starting with a clear plan, staying adaptable, and nurturing a positive environment, we can create a successful and fulfilling year for ourselves and our students. Here’s to a fantastic 2024-2025 school year! It's hard to believe that summer is almost over! Many of you will soon be making preparations for the 2024-2025 academic year. Registration is now open. For new students registering, you can expect to hear from me towards the end of August to schedule a consultation for the first week of September. We look forward to seeing you again soon! Register Here Studying is a skill. Anything that is a skill can be taught, learned, practiced and improved. This week a group of teens completed their Study Skills 2024. We worked at examining and enhancing study their current study skills and refining the methods they use to absorb, process, retain and utilize information effectively. We wish them all the best in the new academic year.
Earlier this week I made a quick trip over to GT to work with a group of interns from the National Internship and Apprenticeship program. We explored 3 essential soft skills through learning, discussion and games.
We wish them all the best as they continue their studies and grow as professionals!
"Courteous treatment will make a customer a walking advertisement.â â James Cash Penney, Founder J.C. Penney Stores
Earlier this week I had the pleasure of working with the employees from C.A.M. In addition to refreshing some important customer service skills they had a great time participating in a team billing challenge!
âThe Public Speakerâ is a 5-session small group coaching program that helps participants improve their public speaking and presentation skills. Speaking in front of others is not always easy, but it is a skill that can be developed! This week two employees from the Ports Authority of the Turks and Caicos Islands completed their sessions, which includes a final component of creating and delivering a speech or a presentation.
Congratulations to the two @portstci Ports Authority Employees that jumped into this program and gave it their all!
Yesterday, I had the wonderful opportunity to work with the team at the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Service. Brushing up on one's soft skills is extremely important. Not only does it improve the cohesiveness between team members, but it is also a valuable tool in dealing with clients and customers.
Our focus for the day was on Building Confidence and Assertiveness. While we often discuss the importance of Assertive Communication, it is rare to delve into it within the context of building the skill of confidence. Confidence and assertiveness are intertwined, and they are essential skills to build in all domains of life. The topics explored in yesterday's workshop were:
The workshop was filled with insightful discussions and practical exercises. The team at the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Service had not only enhanced their understanding of confidence and assertiveness but also gained valuable tools to apply these skills in their professional and personal lives. The end of the school year brings a much-anticipated break for teachers, a well-deserved chance to relax and recharge. For parents, however, it's the beginning of a new and demanding season. Yes, folks, school's out, and parents are officially "it." As an educational entrepreneur juggling work and parenting, I understand the unique challenges summer break can present. Fortunately, many community camps across the country offer enriching programs that can provide structure and learning opportunities for children. Despite this, there are still some common summer behaviors that you can take a pro-active approach to managing. The Snack Monster Children often become bottomless pits during summer. No matter how many snacks you provide, it's never enough. Tip: Establish a snack schedule and adhere to it consistently. Stock up on healthy snacks and limit access to the kitchen between designated snack times. This not only curbs constant grazing but also instills a sense of routine. The Screen Time Struggle Summer often sees an increase in screen time requests, as children look for ways to fill their free time. Tip: Balance screen time with physical and creative activities. Set daily limits on screen use and encourage outdoor play, reading, and hobbies. Use a visual schedule to help children understand when they can expect screen time and when they should engage in other activities. This approach helps them develop a balanced routine and reduces dependency on electronic devices. The Sibling Gladiators Summer can amplify sibling rivalry, leading to frequent disputes. Tip: Establish a "Peaceful Play" agreement with clear rules and consequences for conflicts. Encourage cooperative activities that require teamwork, such as building a puzzle or creating a garden. For instance, set up a "team challenge" where siblings must work together to complete tasks, earning rewards for positive cooperation. This not only helps mitigate conflicts but also fosters a sense of unity and collaboration among siblings. The Perpetual Boredom Syndrome "I’m bored!" becomes a frequent complaint during the long summer days. Tip: Create a "boredom jar" filled with engaging activities that children can do independently. Activities like building a fort or crafting can spark creativity and reduce boredom. Encouraging independent play helps develop self-reliance and problem-solving skills. The Late-Night Party Animal Summer often disrupts regular sleep schedules, leading to late-night energy bursts. Tip: Maintain a consistent bedtime routine even during the summer. Dim the lights, read a calming book, and use white noise if necessary. Consistency in bedtime routines promotes better sleep habits and ensures children are well-rested. Balancing Work and Summer Parenting As an entrepreneur, balancing work and parenting can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity to model effective time management. Here are a few additional tips:
Happy summer, parents! Embrace the challenges, enjoy the moments, and remember to take care of yourself as well. You've got this!
For this week's episode we have a special treat. Yolande was recently featured on "Pushing Your P's" podcast, with Leo Lightbourne, aka L.T. Bourne. "Pushing Your P's" podcast explores the elements of happiness and fulfilment inspired by his latest book, "haPPy: The P's to Push to a Happier Life."
In this episode Yolande and Leo discuss partnerships in personal and professional growth, the importance of perceptions in shaping our experiences, embracing happiness through meaningful connections and perspectives shifts and more. Follow Leo Lightbourne on social media and purchase his book on the links below: FaceBook: / iamltbourne Twitter: / iamltbourne Instagram: / iamltbourne L.T's Website: https://www.ltbourne.com Link to book : https://www.amazon.com/haPPy-Ps-Push-... I recently sat on the other side of the microphone and was a guest on L.T. Bourne's Podcast "Pushing Your P's." The "Pushing Your P's," podcast show is a transformative podcast that delves into the foundational elements of happiness and fulfilment, inspired by L.T. Bourne's new book, "haPPy: The P's to Push to a Happier Life." Each episode explores one of the eight fundamental P's outlined in "haPPy": Parents, Prayer, Perception, Power, Pace, Prosperity, Purpose, and Partnerships. "Pushing Your P's" invites listeners to join the journey towards happiness, one P at a time. Whether seeking guidance on personal growth, spiritual connection, or nurturing meaningful relationships, this podcast is a companion to unlocking the secrets to a genuinely happier life. Episode Description: Yolande Robinson, a passionate educator with over 24 years of experience, shares her journey of embracing happiness through the power of Partnerships and Perception. Discover how Yolande's unique partnership with her husband, Hon. Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, has shaped her career and personal growth. She also delves into the importance of seeing the world from different perspectives and how this has impacted her life.
Learn about Yolande's incredible work with the Learn and Lead Educational Center, which she co-founded with her husband, and her popular podcast, Shifting Perspectives. Yolande's dedication to education, empowerment, and wholehearted living will inspire and motivate you. Key Topics: • The role of Partnerships in personal and professional growth • The importance of Perception in shaping our experiences • Yolande's journey with the Learn and Lead Educational Center • Insights from the Shifting Perspectives podcast • Embracing happiness through meaningful connections and perspective shifts As a mother and educator, I often find myself in heartfelt conversations with parents who express frustration because their child has not yet begun reading. It's understandable— reading is not just a skill but a gateway to knowledge, imagination, and lifelong learning. However, what many parents may not realize is that the journey to reading begins long before a child picks up their first book. It starts with nurturing essential pre-reading skills right at home. The Foundation of Reading: Pre-Reading Skills Before children can read independently, they must develop foundational skills that pave the way for literacy. These pre-reading skills are crucial as they lay the groundwork for understanding letters, sounds, and words. Here are some key pre-reading skills:
As parents, we are our children's first and most influential teachers. Even with the best schools and teachers, our role in fostering literacy cannot be understated. We have the unique opportunity to create rich learning environments at home and incorporate literacy-building activities into everyday life. Summer is an ideal time to nurture pre-reading skills in a relaxed and enjoyable way. Here are some practical tips to integrate literacy into your summer routine:
By incorporating these activities into your summer days, you're not only preventing the summer slide but also equipping your child with the essential skills they need to become confident readers. Remember, learning to read is a journey, and each child progresses at their own pace. Celebrate their milestones and continue to nurture their love for reading.
âThe strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.â- Phil Jackson
Last week I had the opportunity to work with the F Chambers team to kick of their retreat. They began their day with learning, reflection, perspective and laughter. Short team building sessions are a great opportunity to ignite the synergy within your team. Starting off your retreats this way does a great job setting the tone for building as individuals and as a collective! Yesterday I had the opportunity to be a guest panelist at Precious Treasures High School at their Career Symposium.
It was a great opportunity for students to learn and ask questions on school subject choices, higher education, and career choice and evolution.
Yesterday I had the opportunity to work with a small group of officers and 911 operators from the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force.
â Soft Skills Refreshers are a great opportunity to refresh content that has already been trained with new, relevant and realistic scenarios. These refreshers or a great add on to team meetings and technical skills training days. As always, it was a pleasure working with the RTCPF.
As the school year draws to a close, many parents are eagerly anticipating a summer filled with fun, relaxation, and new adventures for their children. While it’s essential for kids to enjoy their break, it’s equally important to ensure they continue their academic growth during the summer months. The concept of "summer slide"—the loss of academic skills over the summer break—is a significant concern for educators and parents alike. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the effects of unfinished learning make it even more crucial to focus on maintaining and advancing your child's academic skills during the summer. Understanding Summer Slide Research indicates that students can lose up to two months of reading skills and one month of math skills during the summer break. This phenomenon, known as the summer slide, disproportionately affects students from lower-income families who may have less access to educational resources. According to the National Summer Learning Association (US), children can lose up to 30% of the gains they made during the school year over the summer. This learning loss accumulates over time, leading to a significant academic gap by the time students reach high school. The Importance of Summer Learning
Here are some tips to help you integrate academic activities into your child's summer routine without compromising the fun and adventure that summer promises:
Final Thoughts As we continue to navigate the challenges posed by COVID-19, it is more important than ever to be intentional about summer learning. By incorporating these tips into your summer plans, you can help your child avoid the summer slide and return to school in the fall ready to succeed. Remember, summer learning doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little creativity and planning, it can be an enjoyable and enriching experience for your child. For more resources, workbooks, and information about our Summer Enrichment Program, visit us at Learn and Lead Educational Center. Let’s work together to ensure that our children have a summer filled with fun, adventure, and learning. References:
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Yolande Robinson, M.Ed. PodcastShifting Perspectives is a conversation with Yolande and Latasha that challenges Listeners to fuel themselves with diversity in the way they think, the way they work, the way they parent and the way they live their lives.
Listen to Shifting Perspectives on Apple Podcasts, Audible, Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Podcast, Stitcher, Pocket Casts, Overcast, Castro, Castbooks, or Podfriend. Archives
August 2024
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