MIDDLE CHILDHOOD: School

Prepare your child for each new school year. Talk about new opportunities, friends, and activities. Tour your child's school with him and meet his teacher.

Show interest in how your child is doing at school and in after-school activities. Talk with your child every day about things she likes and those that worry her.

Praise your child's efforts and accomplishments in school. Encourage him to ask for help when needed.

If your child is anxious about going to school or tells you that she is being bullied, discuss it with her teacher, guidance counselor, or principal. Help your child learn to tell the bully to stop and to walk away.

If your child is not doing well in school, talk with the teacher about what the reason might be. Ask about evaluations, special help, or tutoring.

Attend back-to-school nights, parent-teacher meetings, and other school activities. Get to know the teacher, other families, and the school so you can talk with your child about her experiences.

Provide a well-lit, quiet space for homework, preferably not near a TV (or with the TV off). Decide with your child on the best time to do homework.

If your child is in an after-school program or with a caregiver, be sure the setting is safe. Talk with caregivers about their attitudes about discipline. Do not let them hit or spank your child.