by Felicia Jeffries

Created on: May 25, 2008   Last Updated: June 13, 2008

Before a child's first day of school, parents should be preparing the child mentally for what to expect.

Parents should always have an open door policy. No time should be a bad time when a child comes to talk about an issue.

Children learn and flourish better when parents are involved with teachers, counselors, and various school activities. This lets your child know that you care about them.

1. Parents need to help a child with homework. This will help lighten the load. Help the child to use his or her thinking ability by asking thought provoking questions. This can also make homework time more enjoyable. Tutoring may be helpful if a child is slow in learning.

2. Field trips are taken about three or more times out of a school year. Many parents work. They cannot attend such functions. But when a parent is not working by all means, go on a field trip or two with your child. Take a camera along in order to preserve the memories that will be made.

3. Do not drill them about school, but just engage in conversation. How was your day today? What happened at school today? Did you have an exciting day? These are questions that will help your child to open up. Do not overreact if your child tells you something shocking. Continue to listen. Overreacting will make a child shut down and be hesitant about talking to you about anything going on in his life. Come up with sound solutions to problems.

At times your child may be the one at fault. You must get the facts before coming to a conclusion. This includes talking to your child and all who may have been involved in the situation. If you find your child is at fault, disciplinary action to the proper degree is necessary.

4. Watch who your children hang around. Mention to your child early on that you want the best for them. This includes the best of friends.

If your child has a hard time making friends, coach your child on simple ways they can approach a peer at school. Assure them that it there is nothing wrong with being shy. If other children do not want to be your child's friend, let your child know it is not his fault. Make sure you tell your child things that will keep his self esteem built up.

Complement your child on his or her achievements and strengths. Help them overcome their weaknesses. Be their friend. Plan family outings on the weekend. Do activities together. This will help fill in the gaps of feeling lonely at school.

5. Drugs are another problem in school. Drugs are becoming more available in lower grades at younger

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