As break approaches, families across the country are gearing up for a much-welcome reprieve from the hectic hustle and bustle of everyday life. Still, many parents wonder what kind of academic expectations they should be setting for their kids during the school breaks. It is a common question we are asked at Just2 Tutoring.
For some parents, connecting with their family is the priority, and their kids know it. For others, we are tired. We need this break just as much as they do. Even so, there are still plenty of activities and moments of gratitude that can be shared together in order to truly make the most out of time off from school.
Before the Break
To hit the ground running at the start of a break, one key activity to plan would be creating a holiday break calendar together. Before school ends, sit around the table and discuss what each family member wants to do over the break. Talk about plans for time with family, friends, events, and travel. Put it all on paper and transfer it to a digital calendar that everyone can access, like GCal or ICal so everyone is on the same page and there are no surprises.
While together, it’s important to also acknowledge the accomplishments of each individual. Spend some time reflecting on your and your child’s successes this semester — both academically and personally. Identify any effective strategies they used so they can use them again next semester. Most importantly, celebrate their and your efforts and encourage each other to build on strengths!
During the break
It’s important to remember that school breaks are opportunities to take a step back from regular school routines and let things feel a little more relaxed. Set an agreeable sleep plan with them, one that offers them ample rest without encouraging them to stay in bed all day scrolling on their phones. Consider establishing “no phone” hours or days where screens are replaced with genuine family time. Plan to schedule your “no phone” rule around activities that both you and your child enjoy.
Some of our recommendations:
- Go on a family outing or trip.
- Plan a late meal at a place that you usually wouldn’t go.
- Have a game night or movie night.
- Try cooking or baking something new.
- Make real (or fake and funny) rewards for each other.
With these, the goal is to have quality family time within moments of gratitude and acknowledgment. So don’t just schedule it, hype it up, make teams, and invite neighbors to make it even more memorable.
After the break
After you’ve made memories and spent quality time together, it will soon be time to get back into a routine. To ensure that everyone gets off to a good start, update your family calendar so everyone is on the same page. Reevaluate what worked and what did not work before the break once again. Create new or use previous scheduling systems, similar to what we recommend when you start your break, with your child to outline your and your child’s weekly routine and responsibilities.
Breaks Are Important At Just2 Tutoring
At Just2 Tutoring we believe family time should be just that — family time. That is why we recommend this approach before a school break. Our coaches and educators want to take the burden of education off of your shoulders so you can focus on spending quality time with your young person instead of hassling them about school work during breaks. With these tips and the support of Just2 Tutoring, we can make a school break be a great break. Contact us today so you and your child can have the break you deserve.
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