School Days ... Golden Rule Days

I vividly remember each first day of elementary school. I would be wearing a new woolen dress and new shoes purchased for the occasion. It was usually 80 degrees in Bayonne, New Jersey in early September and none of the schools were air conditioned. I was going to be pretty hot in my new clothes and my new shoes would pinch my feet until I broke them in. It's a wonder I was able to concentrate at all!

What I also remember are the clear expectations my parents set for me. I knew I had to behave in class; listen attentively; not speak out of turn; play with others at recess; and complete homework assignments after I changed into my "play clothes".

There is a correlation between establishing clear expectations and school success. The first 11 pages of the "Don't Be That KID! At School Resource Guide" is devoted to making school expectations clear. The activities are separated into grades K-1, 2-3 and 4-5. Whether you are a parent or a teacher, the activities will assist you to have a good beginning of the new school year.

Don't forget to take the Don't Be That KID! Pledge. It can be found on page 69 of the Resource Guide or on my website.

The start of a new school year is an exciting time. Make the transition easier with clear expectations (and comfortable clothes and shoes!).