How can I help my child transition from carefree summer days to structured school days?
By Lesley Warnshuis

First of all, think positive. Though they won't always admit it, most children, after three months, or even one month if they're on a year-round schedule, get bored trying to find ways to fill their time, are anxious to see their school friends again, and are ready for some structure.  So you've got that on your side!

Second, convey a positive attitude to your child. Getting up earlier, going to bed earlier, having new teachers and classmates, and even doing homework, should be promoted as fun adventures, new learning experiences, and greater responsibilities that come with getting older.

To help maintain that positive attitude, attach some age-appropriate rewards and privileges to these new responsibilities.  For example, rather than threaten your middle-schooler with no phone or Internet until homework is done, reward him as follows:

"If you finish your homework before dinner, you may use the phone or Internet for thirty minutes tonight."

In moderation, recreational activities such as using the phone or the Internet, watching TV, going to games, dances, or movies, having sleepovers, playing Nintendo, playing outside, riding bikes, and going for an ice cream, are just as essential to a child's physical, social and emotional growth. However, make it clear that they are rewards and privileges to be won for good behavior, not inherent rights which evil parents take away for bad behavior.

As a parent of three, now all in their teens, I’ve learned that being positive always works better than being negative, and being consistent in using rewards and privileges leads to more order and peace in the house. Teachers, who must constantly impose structure in the classroom, are very appreciative when parents get their kids used to it at home. 

Lesley Warnshuis taught high school English in the Bay Area for ten years, until 1985, when she and her husband opened a cafe and catering business, which has kept their family busy and fed ever since.