Happy New Year! The winter months of the school year can feel long and challenging. From shorter days, colder weather, and the impact of holiday breaks, keeping a regular flow in schedule can be tough for both parents and students. However, with the right strategies, you can make it through this season successfully. Here are some tips to help you navigate this time of year while preparing for the months ahead.

1. Set Goals for the Remainder of the School Year

Use this mid-year point to reflect on accomplishments and set new goals:

• Academic Goals: Whether it’s improving a specific subject or acing upcoming tests, setting clear targets keeps students motivated.
• Personal Goals: Encourage resolutions like reading more books or learning a new skill. Even acquiring a new skill would be a personal goal to set.
• Family Goals: Plan family activities or challenges, such as a collective goal of volunteering a certain number of hours.

2. Stay Organized

• Create a Family Calendar: Use a shared digital or physical calendar to keep track of important dates such as tests, projects, events, and extracurricular activities.
• Establish Consistent Routines: Set a consistent routine to combat winter sluggishness and ensures productivity.
• Check-In Regularly: Have weekly check-ins with your children and/or family members to discuss their academic progress and challenges they may be facing. This proactive approach prevents problems from snowballing.

3. Beat the Winter Blues

Short days and limited outdoor time can lead to seasonal doldrums. Combat this by:

• Prioritize Physical Activity: Encourage movement, whether through indoor sports, family dance parties, or yoga sessions. This movement will be energizing on days that may be difficult in the winter.
• Get Outside When Possible: On sunny and milder, bundle up and head outdoors for fresh air and a dose of natural light. Since we are in North Dakota, ensure to have your winter gear ready.
• Foster Creativity: Winter is a great time for creative projects like painting, crafting, or building models. Take those paint brushes out and channel your inner artist!

4 . Maintain Communication with Teachers

Strong parent-teacher communication is crucial, especially during the winter months and middle of the school year:

• Attend Parent-Teacher Conferences: These meetings provide insights into your child’s progress and areas for improvement.
• Reach Out Proactively: If your child struggles with a specific subject or needs enrichment opportunities, initiate a conversation with their teacher.
• Stay Informed: Join school mailing lists, communication platforms (i.e ParentSquare) or follow the Minot AFB School Liaison Office to stay updated on important events and announcements.

Now you have additional tools in your kit while navigating winter. Next week, check back for Navigating the Winter Months of the School Year: A Guide for K-12 Parents and Students- Part 2.