Staying Safe When Walking to School

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Recently, over 400 children were injured every day in traffic crashes, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Many of these injuries are preventable by following some simple safety guidelines.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

1. Make sure your child has a safe route before allowing him or her to walk to school.
2. Always cross at a crosswalk.
3. Avoid dashing out between cars.
4. Do not cross the street alone if you are younger than 10 years old.
5. Stop at the curb before crossing the street.
6. Walk, don’t run, across the street.
7. Look LEFT, RIGHT and LEFT again before crossing.
8. Walk facing traffic.
9. Make sure drivers see you before crossing in front of them.
10. Do not play in driveways, parking lots or unfenced yards by the street.
11. Wear bright clothing or reflectors when walking at night.
12. Cross at least 10 feet in front of a school bus.

For more resources and information on safe routes to school, visit the National Center for Safe Routes to School.

Headaches In Children

From Children’s Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW Washington DC 20010 from “Rise and Shine” Website

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Headaches are the most common neurologic disorder in the general population. According to the National Headache Foundation, more than 10 million American children between the ages of 5 and 17 experience chronic headaches; this makes up 20 percent of all young people.

Headaches interfere with daily life, making it difficult for kids to concentrate at school and participate in sports and aerobic activities. When they become more chronic and severe, headaches can also result in school absenteeism. Headaches can even lead to secondary psychological problems, such as depression, anxiety and other mood disorders.

What is a headache?

A headache is pain or discomfort in the head or face area. Headaches can be single or recurrent in nature, and localized to one or more areas of the head and face.

What causes a headache?

The exact cause of headaches is not completely understood. It is thought that many headaches are the result of tight muscles and dilated, or expanded, blood vessels in the head. Other headaches may be caused by an alteration in the communication between parts of the nervous system that relay information about pain coming from the area of the head, face and neck. Occasionally, there is an actual problem in the brain, such as a tumor or malformation of the brain, although this is rare.

What are the different types of headaches?

Headaches are typically divided into two categories: primary and secondary.

Primary headaches are due to the headache condition itself and not other conditions. For example, they can be caused by tight muscles, dilated blood vessels, changes in communication between parts of the nervous system or inflammation of the structures in the brain. There are three types of primary headaches:

• Migraines may start early in childhood, often in kids with a family history of migraines. The average age of onset is 7 years old for boys and 10 years old for girls. Some girls may have migraines that correlate with their menstrual periods.
• Tension headaches are the most common type of headache. Stress and mental or emotional conflict are often factors in triggering pain related to tension headaches.
• Cluster headaches usually start in children older than 10 years of age, and are more common in adolescent males. Cluster headaches usually occur in a series that may last weeks or months, and this series of headaches may return every year or two.

Secondary headaches are caused by problems in the structure of the brain, or by other health conditions and diseases. Secondary headaches are the least common type of headache and typically increase in frequency over time. They may be associated with other neurologic symptoms or signs, such as fever, excessive vomiting, double vision or periods of confusion that are otherwise unexplained.

How are headaches diagnosed?

The diagnosis of a headache is made with a careful history and physical examination. Occasionally, diagnostic tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or lumbar puncture (LP) are done to rule out secondary causes of headaches. However, it is rare for patients with headaches to have a more serious problem, and the majority of patients with migraine headaches require no testing.

How do I prevent headaches?

Most patients with headaches respond to basic healthy lifestyle changes that reduce headache frequency and intensity. Common goals include drinking specific amount of fluids every day, avoiding caffeine and artificial sweeteners, daily aerobic exercise, regular sleep cycles and a healthy, well-balanced diet. In a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, more than 70 percent of children and adolescents showed improvement in their headaches when they performed these lifestyle changes for a period of several months.

Social Media and Kids

From Children’s Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW Washington DC 20010 from “Rise and Shine” Website

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Your teenager just asked you if she can start an Instagram account. What should you do? We’ve put together some social media tips for parents to help you and your kids navigate the online world.

It’s okay for your teen to be online

We’ve all heard the horror stories of kids being bullied on social media or friending sexual predators pretending to be kids. But it really is okay for your teen to be online. In fact, online relationships are part of typical adolescent development. Social media can support teens as they explore and discover more about themselves and their place in the grown-up world by giving them access to communities they might not find locally.

So, talk to your teen about why they want to be on social media and help them find safe ways to get these benefits both online and offline.

However, just like how you might teach them to drive, think of a list of things you’d like to teach them about social media or rules you’d like to establish before allowing them to have an account. Keep lines of communication open and let them know you’re there if they have questions or concerns. This may take several rounds of discussions and that’s okay.

Teaching kids how to be safe online

Many teens need to be reminded that a platform’s privacy settings do not actually make things “private” and that images, thoughts and behaviors teens share online will instantly become part of their digital footprint indefinitely. Teens need to know that once content is shared with others, they will not be able to delete or remove it completely. This includes texting inappropriate pictures. Teach your kids how to balance how much they share about themselves online.

Teens may also not know about or choose not to use privacy settings and they need to be warned that sex offenders often use social networking, chat rooms, email and online gaming to contact and exploit children. Make sure your kids know about identity theft and false identity.

Ask your kids if they’ve ever seen anything disturbing or concerning online. Inform them that social media algorithms will continue to show them that type of content if they’ve engaged with it because they cannot differentiate between “good” and “bad” content. Teach them how to block unwanted content so they can have a more positive experience on these apps.

Find an appropriate balance

It’s important for teens to balance healthy and essential activities such as sleep, exercise, learning and family time with digital consumption. You can help them do this by discussing what activities need to be prioritized daily and then budgeting for social media and screen time through the use of a family media plan.

The media plan should include clear boundaries about what media is allowed and what is not and should include all members of the family, including yourself. Educate your teens that social media applications are designed to keep people scrolling and that we all need reminders to put our phones away.

One way to set these limits is within the apps themselves and by tracking usage time. To help your teen get over the fear of missing out, have them block or silence notifications from social media when they’re studying, hanging out with friends or family, at school or doing something else in the “real world.”

You can also create media-free zones, such as during mealtimes and at bedtime, and set aside specific days or hours as media-free periods.

Be a good role model

Teens tend to do what they see rather than what you say. So, if you spend all your time looking at Instagram, chances are your teen will too. Be a good role model and limit your time on social media and screens. Try to follow the same rules for media-free times as your children. Feel free to share some of your experiences with social media and how it can affect you as well.

Remember: Kids will be kids

Kids will make mistakes using social media. Try to handle errors with empathy and turn mistakes into teachable moments. However, some indiscretions, such as sexting, bullying or posting self-harm images, may be a red flag that hints at trouble ahead. It’s important that you carefully observe your child’s behavior and, if needed, enlist supportive professional help, including your pediatrician.

Positive Discipline

From Children’s Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW Washington DC 20010 from “Rise and Shine” Website

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While discipline is one of the most important — and often most challenging — aspects of parenting, as a pediatric clinician, I frequently speak with families about positive discipline strategies that guide children’s behavior in ways that are both effective and supportive of healthy development.

First and foremost, physical punishment is not an appropriate form of discipline. Not only is it potentially dangerous, but strong evidence shows that it is ineffective in promoting long-term behavioral change. In fact, research consistently demonstrates that physical punishment is associated with increased aggression, anxiety and other unwanted behaviors. Studies have found no meaningful positive outcomes associated with corporal punishment and, in many cases, it can even worsen behavior over time.

Beyond effectiveness, the scope of child abuse and physical punishment is deeply concerning. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 13 boys in the United States experience some form of child abuse, highlighting how common these experiences are. Globally, about 1 in 5 children experience physical punishment by a caregiver within a given month. In the U.S., estimates suggest that as many as 85% of youth have experienced some form of physical punishment during childhood. These numbers underscore that while physical discipline may be common, it is not harmless — and its widespread use does not make it appropriate or effective.

As with many areas of child development, prevention is one of the most powerful tools we have. Children thrive on predictability. Sticking to a familiar routine, preparing your child for upcoming transitions and offering clear, age-appropriate explanations about what to expect can significantly reduce frustration and defiance. When children feel secure and informed, they are far more likely to cooperate.

Equally important is the caregiver’s emotional state. Children are highly attuned to the adults around them. Remaining calm and regulated — even in the face of challenging behavior — allows you to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. A calm caregiver can communicate expectations clearly and model the kind of self-control and emotional regulation we hope children will learn to emulate.

It is also helpful to reframe how we interpret behavior. In most cases, children are not trying to give you a hard time — they are having a hard time. Whether due to fatigue, hunger, overstimulation or developmental limitations, many challenging behaviors are a child’s way of expressing unmet needs or emotions they do not yet have the skills to manage.

One practical strategy I often recommend is the “5:1 ratio.” This means aiming for at least five positive interactions, like praise, encouragement, affection or shared moments of connection, for every one corrective or negative interaction. This approach strengthens the parent-child relationship and reinforces the behaviors you want to see more often. Focusing on good behaviors will help that child see themselves positively. A reframing that may be helpful: every child is good; sometimes they just make bad decisions.

Effective discipline cannot be comprehensively addressed in a short article, but I hope this opens a larger conversation with your pediatrician or health care provider about safe, effective discipline strategies for your family. Ultimately, successful discipline is about guidance, consistency and connection. By creating a structured environment, staying calm and focusing on teaching rather than punishing, caregivers can foster not only better behavior but also stronger emotional resilience and healthier long-term outcomes for their children.

Why Do Babies Get a Vitamin K Shot at Birth?

From Children’s Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW Washington DC 20010 from “Rise and Shine” Website

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When your baby is born, there are many routine steps that help protect their health right from the start. One of the most important is a vitamin K injection, which pediatricians recommend for all newborns shortly after birth.

Vitamin K plays a critical role in helping blood clot properly. Without enough vitamin K, babies can be at risk for dangerous bleeding that may not be visible right away. The good news is that a single vitamin K shot at birth is a safe and highly effective way to prevent these complications.

Why babies need vitamin K

Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting. In adults and older children, vitamin K comes from food and from healthy bacteria that live in the gut. Newborns, however, start life with very low levels of vitamin K for several reasons.

Vitamin K does not cross the placenta in significant amounts during pregnancy. Babies are also born without the gut bacteria needed to produce vitamin K on their own. Even breast milk contains only small amounts of this vitamin.

Because of this, newborns are naturally at risk for vitamin K deficiency during their first months of life unless they receive supplementation.

What is Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding?

Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding, often called VKDB, is a rare but very serious condition that occurs when a baby does not have enough vitamin K to support normal blood clotting.

Some infants develop VKDB within the first week of life. Early signs may include bleeding from the umbilical cord stump, excessive bleeding after circumcision, or bleeding in the intestines.

In other cases, bleeding can occur weeks or even months later. This is known as late-onset VKDB and can happen up to 6 months after birth. Late-onset VKDB is especially dangerous because it often involves bleeding into the brain, which can cause permanent injury or be life-threatening.

Although VKDB is uncommon, its consequences can be severe. That is why pediatricians strongly recommend vitamin K for every newborn.

How the vitamin K shot protects your baby

A single vitamin K injection given shortly after birth provides reliable protection against VKDB. This one-time dose helps ensure your baby has enough vitamin K during the months when they are most vulnerable to bleeding.

The vitamin K shot is effective for healthy, full-term newborns and offers even more protection for babies who may have additional risk factors, such as prematurity or certain liver conditions.

Oral, or by-mouth, vitamin K is not as effective. Vitamin K levels drop quickly after oral doses, which can leave infants unprotected. The injection provides steady and lasting protection when babies need it most.

Is the vitamin K shot safe?

Yes. Vitamin K has been routinely given to newborns in the United States for more than 60 years and is considered the standard of care. It is endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and widely supported by pediatric experts.

The injection has a strong safety record and has been shown to dramatically reduce the risk of vitamin K deficiency bleeding. Today, the vast majority of babies born in the U.S. receive this important preventive care at birth.

What parents should know

Choosing care for your newborn can feel overwhelming, especially in the first hours after delivery. The vitamin K shot is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your baby from a rare but serious bleeding condition.

If you have questions or concerns, talk with your pediatrician or care team. They can help explain how vitamin K works and why it plays such an important role in keeping newborns safe during their earliest months of life.

Valentine’s Day

From Children’s Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW Washington DC 20010 from “Rise and Shine” Website

“https://riseandshine.childrensnational.org“

As Valentine’s Day approaches, stores fill with cards, candy and messages about romance. For many teens, this time of year can feel exciting — but it can also bring pressure, confusion and emotional stress. As a pediatrician, I want to use this moment to talk about something far more important than flowers or social media posts: healthy relationships.

Adolescence is a critical period for emotional and social development. The relationships teens form — romantic, platonic and digital — help shape how they see themselves and how they relate to others well into adulthood. Valentine’s Day offers a timely opportunity for families to reflect on what healthy love really means.

What does a healthy relationship look like?

A healthy teen relationship is built on respect, trust and communication. These qualities may sound simple, but they are powerful protective factors for both mental and physical health.

In healthy relationships:

• Both people feel safe being themselves.
• Boundaries are respected — emotionally, physically and digitally.
•  Disagreements are handled without threats, manipulation or humiliation.
• There is mutual support for friendships, school goals and family connections.

It’s important to remind teens that jealousy, constant monitoring or pressure to share passwords, photos or location is not a sign of love. These behaviors can be early warning signs of unhealthy or controlling dynamics.

The role of social media and digital pressure

Today’s teens navigate relationships not only in hallways and classrooms, but also online. Valentine’s Day can amplify comparison and insecurity — who got a gift, who posted a photo and who didn’t.

As a pediatrician, I often see how digital pressure affects teens’ self-esteem and emotional well-being. Encourage teens to remember that what they see online is a carefully curated highlight reel — not the full story. Healthy relationships do not require public validation or constant digital availability.

A helpful rule of thumb to share with teens is this: If something wouldn’t feel okay in person, it’s probably not okay online either.

Self-worth comes first

One of the most important messages we can give teens — especially around Valentine’s Day — is that their value does not depend on being in a relationship. Being single is not a failure, and having a partner is not a measure of maturity or success.

Healthy relationships grow best when teens have a strong sense of self-worth, interests and support systems outside of dating. Encourage activities that build confidence, such as sports, arts, volunteering and friendships. Remind teens that learning who they are is just as important as learning who they might like.

How parents and caregivers can help

You don’t need to have all the answers to make a difference. What teens need most is a trusted adult who listens without judgment.

Some simple ways to support healthy teen relationships include:

• Start conversations early and often. Ask open-ended questions like, “What do you think makes a relationship healthy?”
• Model respect in your own relationships. Teens learn as much from what they see as from what they’re told.
• Normalize asking for help. Let teens know they can come to you — or another trusted adult or healthcare provider — if something feels wrong.

If you notice changes such as withdrawal, anxiety, declining grades or fear related to a relationship, take them seriously. Pediatricians are trained to help screen for emotional stress and relationship concerns and can be an important resource for families.

A Valentine’s message that lasts

This Valentine’s Day, let’s expand the conversation beyond romance. Let’s talk about kindness, consent, self-respect and emotional safety. These are the foundations of healthy relationships — and healthy hearts — for life.

Whether your teen is dating, curious, heartbroken or happily single, remind them that the most important relationship they will ever have is with themselves. That is a message worth celebrating every day of the year.

How is Pediatric ER Care Different than Adult ER Care?

From Children’s Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW Washington DC 20010 from “Rise and Shine” Website

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Did you know there are important differences between adult and pediatric emergency care? Pediatric emergency departments (EDs) are designed specifically to meet the needs of infants, children and teens — from the equipment to the staff expertise. Here’s how care for children in the emergency department stands apart.

Specialized pediatric emergency doctors and nurses

Pediatric emergency medicine doctors and nurses receive advanced training to recognize and treat conditions unique to children. Children react differently to illness and injury than an adults, so dosing, treatment plans and procedures must be carefully adjusted for their size, age and development. Families can feel reassured knowing their child is being cared for by providers who specialize in pediatric medicine.

Equipment sized for children

Children aren’t just “small adults.” Pediatric emergency departments are stocked with equipment made specifically for babies, toddlers, school-age children and teens. From blood pressure cuffs to breathing tubes, everything is available in the right size. Having the right tools means safer procedures and more accurate monitoring.

Child-friendly environment

Emergency departments can feel overwhelming, especially for children. Pediatric EDs are designed with families in mind. Waiting rooms often include colorful artwork, play spaces or distraction tools like tablets and toys. Staff are trained in child-friendly communication to help ease fears and explain what’s happening in age-appropriate ways.

Family-centered care

Parents and caregivers play a critical role in a child’s recovery. Pediatric emergency departments encourage family presence whenever possible, whether during exams, procedures or recovery. Care teams work closely with families to explain diagnoses, answer questions and guide next steps.

Common reasons kids need emergency care

Children often come to the ED for conditions that look very different from those in adults. Common reasons include:

• Breathing problems like asthma
• Fevers or dehydration
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Falls and sports injuries
• Allergic reactions
• Seizures
• Accidental ingestions
• Cuts and injuries that possibly need stitches

These emergencies require fast recognition and treatment tailored to a child’s physiology and growth stage.

When to bring your child to a pediatric ED

If your child has a severe injury, difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding or a sudden change in behavior or consciousness, seek emergency care right away. A pediatric ED offers the added benefit of providers who focus exclusively on children, ensuring care is accurate, safe and compassionate.

Is Tylenol (Acetaminophen) Safe?

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If you’re a parent, chances are you’ve reached for acetaminophen at some point to help your child feel better. Recently, questions have come up about the safety of this over-the-counter pain medication for children and whether there’s any connection between acetaminophen and autism. Candice Suzonne Dawes, MD, medical director at Children’s National Anacostia, helps explain what parents should know.

What is acetaminophen?

Acetaminophen is one of the most commonly used medications for children. You probably know it by its brand name, Tylenol, but many generic versions are available too. It helps reduce fever and relieve mild to moderate pain by changing how the body senses pain and releasing excess heat.

Is acetaminophen safe for children?

“Yes—when used as directed, acetaminophen is safe for children,” says Dr. Dawes. Pediatricians recommend it for fever and pain relief, but there’s one important caveat: parents of infants younger than 12 weeks should always consult a pediatrician before taking acetaminophen. Children younger than 12 weeks may need additional testing if they have a fever, and parents should always consult with a pediatrician before giving acetaminophen.

Does acetaminophen cause autism?

No. There is no scientific evidence linking acetaminophen to autism. The medication has been used since the 1950s, and decades of research have found no causal relationship.

What is autism?

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with a wide range of symptoms that affects social interaction and communication. “Its causes are still being studied,” says Dr. Dawes. “But acetaminophen is not one of them.”

What are the dosing guidelines for acetaminophen in children?

Here’s what pediatricians recommend:

• Dosing: Every 4–6 hours as needed for fever or pain (the dose is based on the child’s weight)
• Maximum: No more than four doses in 24 hours
• Check labels: Avoid giving other medications that also contain acetaminophen
• Under 12 weeks: Always consult your pediatrician first

What about other pain relievers?

Ibuprofen (which you may know by brand names like Motrin or Advil) is another option for fever and pain relief, but it should not be given to children under six months of age. Like acetaminophen, it has its own dosing guidelines. Sometimes, doctors recommend alternating acetaminophen and ibuprofen for severe pain or post-surgery recovery—but only under medical guidance.

Is acetaminophen safe during pregnancy?

Yes. Research shows no evidence of harm or a link to autism when acetaminophen is used during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant and have concerns, consult your OB-GYN, but rest assured that acetaminophen is considered safe.

Where can you find reliable information?

When in doubt, turn to trusted sources:

• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
• Your pediatrician
• Avoid relying on social media or non-medical sources—they often spread misinformation

What are the best ways to manage a fever in children?

Dr. Dawes says that not every fever needs medication. Here’s what she and other pediatricians want you to know about managing fevers in children:

• Focus on comfort and hydration
• Watch for signs of dehydration: No tears when crying, fewer wet diapers or dry lips
• Fever is a natural immune response, and is not always harmful
• Monitor symptoms, not just the number on the thermometer

“If you’re ever unsure, call your pediatrician. They’re your best partner in keeping your child healthy,” says Dr. Dawes.

Key takeaways

• Acetaminophen is safe for children and pregnant women when used correctly
• There is no evidence linking acetaminophen to autism
• Always follow dosing instructions and consult your pediatrician for infants or special cases
• Use trusted sources like AAP for guidance

Bottom line: Acetaminophen remains a safe and effective way to help your child feel better when used as directed.

What To Do If Your Child Gets Their Tooth Knocked Out?

From Children’s Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW Washington DC 20010 from “Rise and Shine” Website

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Accidents happen quickly, and sometimes they involve your child’s teeth or mouth. Knowing what to do in the moment can help save a tooth and protect your child’s smile. Here’s a guide to handling dental trauma and tips to prevent it in the future.

Stay calm and assess the situation

Don’t panic. Start by gently cleaning your child’s face so you can see the injury clearly. If your child has also hit their head or briefly lost consciousness, they should be evaluated by a physician immediately.

If a tooth has been knocked out

• Find the tooth if possible.
  • If it’s a permanent tooth, place it in milk or a tooth-preserving solution like Save-A-Tooth (often available from school nurses or sports trainers). Call your dentist right away — this is a time-sensitive emergency. The sooner the tooth is replaced, the better the outcome.
  • Once reinserted, the dentist will “splint” it with a wire to stabilize healing. They may also prescribe antibiotics or rinses, so share any allergies and confirm tetanus status. Continued brushing is important to support healing, and your child may eventually need a root canal, so follow-up visits are critical.
• If it’s a baby tooth, celebrate with the tooth fairy! Do not reinsert baby teeth into the socket.
• If the tooth can’t be found, your dentist may order an X-ray of your child’s stomach and chest to ensure it wasn’t swallowed.

Other dental injuries

Broken or displaced teeth should be evaluated promptly by your dentist. If you suspect a jaw fracture, seek emergency care.

At Children’s National Hospital, our pediatric dental team is available 24/7 to manage dental trauma. During business hours, visit our dental clinic; after hours and weekends, emergency care is provided in the emergency department by the on-call dentists.

Preventing dental injuries

Mouthguards are the best protection against dental injuries during sports. While they’re required for some high school athletes (football, lacrosse, field hockey, wrestling with braces), other sports like basketball cause a high number of dental injuries too.

Types of mouthguards:

• Stock mouthguards (often attached to helmets) offer minimal protection.
• Boil-and-bite mouthguards are affordable, widely available and provide good protection — though uneven biting during fitting can create thin spots.
• Custom mouthguards from a dentist offer the best protection and comfort, but they are more expensive.

Check your child’s mouthguard regularly for wear, clean it often and encourage coaches to require them at both games and practices.

Everyday oral health habits

Healthy teeth are more resilient against injury. Remind your child to:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss every day
• Limit sugary drinks like soda, sports drinks and juice
• Visit the dentist every six months for check-ups

Help Your Kid Deal With Mistakes

From Children’s Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW Washington DC 20010 from “Rise and Shine” Website

“https://riseandshine.childrensnational.org“

Who wants to make a mistake? This is the question I asked myself when I thought about what topic might feel helpful to families as we start the school year and turn our attention to the months ahead. We all want to do things correctly – and help our children learn to do things correctly as well! Your kids may feel worried about grades or meeting new people. I hope to share ideas on how to help your child to be okay with making mistakes!

I am forever thankful for my son’s second grade teacher who posted signs in her classroom with the message, “If you’re not making mistakes, you’re not learning.” We want our kids to do their best and learn all that they can. Kids come into the world curious, looking to learn new things as parents cheer them on. They start school wanting to learn and get all the right answers – but they will make mistakes. Mistakes are an important part of learning, but some kids feel they must be perfect. They think mistakes means they are “dumb” or “stupid.” They need help to focus on how to learn from their mistakes, so they don’t give up. This helps them rewrite the story they tell themselves about what making a mistake means. Here are strategies to support them:

1. Share your own mistakes! Point out the mistakes you make in your daily life. Talk about your frustration with your mistakes and what you learned – and what you will do different next time. (“What a mess! I won’t forget to put the cat out when I leave.” “Next time I will make a list before I go to the grocery store, so I don’t forget something.”)
2. Focus on effort, not just results. Help your child establish a schedule to work on schoolwork, with brief breaks. One suggestion is 10 minutes/school year but talk to your child’s teacher. Support your child to actively work during that time and allow them to stop when the timer finishes. Praise their hard work. Let their teacher know the schedule and why work may not be completed so your child is not punished. If your child cannot complete assignments during that time, they may need more support at school.
3. Make learning fun whenever possible. This may be easier for younger kids, such as adding up the numbers on dice when playing a game to practice math or making up fun sentences for spelling words. Older kids may enjoy challenging you to solve complicated math problems or quiz you on science/social studies facts. Enjoy learning from your mistakes with them!
4. Help your child figure out how to correct their mistakes so they don’t repeat them. Focus on helping them learn from their mistakes instead of how many mistakes they make. Maybe they need to learn a strategy to check their work or maybe they did not understand the assignment – or maybe it’s a little of both. Work with your child to solve problems and plan on what to do different next time.
5. Help your child feel okay talking to you about mistakes so they don’t hide them. You may be anxious or worried when your child is struggling with a subject. Let them know you see how hard they are working and talk to them about what may help. Contact their teacher (or help them talk to their teacher) to get help in the classroom.