While I hate to be the bearer of bad news, I have to do it. Summer is over, and it’s time for the kids to go back to school. From Pre-school to College, it’s time to get the clothes ready, and the school routines ramped up. This adjustment is often a stressful time for kids and parents alike. I remember how I felt when my mother forced me downtown and buy my school uniform and books.
No matter how much time has passed, some things never change. You still can see the mothers running up and down the malls finding the clothes and supplies for the kids. Well, where are the Dads? Some are in the car listening to the radio; a few are walking behind the mom and kids holding most of the bags, and others were just not there. It is time to change the narrative; as fathers, we play a vital role in ensuring our kids get back to school into the best positions possible.
Get Informed About The School Year.
I know this is not your area; as a first-generation father, you are unfamiliar with the school system and its various quirks. However, that is not an excuse; you need to know the details. First things first, get educated on your child’s education. How else will you know expectations? Don’t rely solely on your significant other to remember PTA, exams, and presentation dates. Find out how to log into your child’s grade account. For older childer, get a copy of the course syllabus.
You Need To Set Boundaries And Coach Success.
As the school year is about to start, set clear boundaries early. Please do it now, do not wait until school is in full swing. You should set the tone and provide the children’s limitations for the entire year; if you want to cut TV or video games during the week, state that at the beginning, so your children know what to expect.
Once again, the time to be involved in the coming semester is now. Both you and your children will be exponentially more likely to be productive and successful when they know their boundaries.
You Need To Be Active
The days of the invisible dad are slowly coming to an end. As a first-generation father, you need to be involved. Your children must understand how invested you are in their education. Meet the teachers, help out during the school activities, or attend PTA meetings. I know you may not have much available flextime, but you can always be involved somehow. Dad showing up is a huge positive for any kid in any grade.
You Need To Prepare To Be Flexible.
In today’s environment, being flexible and adapting to change is essential. The COVID-19 pandemic was a great teaching moment for why developing those skills is necessary when having children. With all these variants and folks still getting sick, you don’t know when schools may be closed and switched to virtual classrooms. It would be best if you were prepared for any changes. Ensure you have plans to accommodate any sudden changes. Most employers understand the times we are in and will more than likely work with your new situation.
You Need To Be A Team Player
It does not matter your relationship with your child’s mom, whether they are your wife, ex-wife, girlfriend, or baby’s mother. Raising a child is a team activity, and you need each other to win. So the more in sync and civil you are with her is one less stress for your child. You do not want to make your child feel awkward, embarrassed, stressed, anxious, or any other negative emotions when dealing with their parents. Family dysfunction can be a significant hindrance to a child’s success. If Dad and Mom are optimistic and aligned about the upcoming semester, chances are the children will fall in line.Â
Conclusion
So this upcoming semester, whether this is your first child or your fifth, be ready. Remember you are critical to your child’s academic success. Neither parent is adequate on their own; together, you two balance each other out and equip the up-and-coming generation with a healthy, well-rounded approach to life. Your family looks to you to help guide them. Relax because you are doing great.
