Right now, it feels as if we are all sprinting towards the end of the school year. Many parents, teachers and students are beginning to run out of steam and just want to make it to the finish line.  Well, don’t give up! We’ve got a few suggestions that will help keep you in the race until you cross the line on the last day of school!

• Stick to the Basics:  May and June are filled with lots of fun activities and celebrations which can often make it easy to forget the basics. Help your child stick to a routine as much as possible so that they are eating well and getting enough exercise and sleep.
• Stay informed:  Talk to your children and if necessary, their teachers, to know what end of year assignment, projects and test deadlines are required. You may need to help your child with time management a little more than usual so keep a common calendar and remind them to do a little work every day.
• Take Advantage of Travel Time:  Use time in the car while you travel from activity to activity to review for tests and other assignments.  It’s a great time to review basic facts and vocabulary!
• Don’t be Afraid to Say No!:  While it may be tempting to participate in every special activity that you are invited to participate in, sometimes it’s a better idea to regretfully say no and spend more time on homework or a little down time and family time.  
• Embrace imperfection:  Children and parents alike need to remember that not everything has to be perfect!  That could mean using stickers on a poster instead of hand drawing letters or buying store-made cupcakes for the end of year party instead of making them at home.
• Read!:  It goes without saying how important reading every day is and that may be one of the first things to go during this busy time. However, it is so important to make time for it, especially before bedtime as it gives everyone a chance to relax, unwind,  and spend time together.
• Plan for the Summer: As we have mentioned in a previous blog, summer slide is real. Make sure you sign your child up for classes that will help support them in reading, writing, and mathematics. If a class or camp will not work for your family, ask your child’s teacher for suggestions on what to work on with your child over the summer.  Most schools will have summer literacy and math assignments so make sure you know what they are. (Neighborhood Lit offers summer classes. Click here for more information:  https://neighborhoodlit.com/collections/summer-reading)
• Savor these Moments: Although it may sound cliche, enjoy these moments. While they may be chaotic and overwhelming, they will not last forever so try to stay present in the moment and enjoy that kindergarten graduation, musical performance or awards ceremony!

The school year is almost over! Follow these suggestions and you will make it through.  Remember slow and steady wins the race. 

Any questions?  Please email us at Janice@Neighborhoodlit.com.  Taylor Burke is a teacher and Director of Communications at Neighborhood Lit. and works closely with Janice Migliazza, a Reading Specialist and owner of Neighborhood Lit, Route 34, Colts Neck to bring you this information.