Putting on the Parent Hat

1. Be a good role model. Kids do what you do!

2. Provide boundaries for kids.

3. Create a network with the parents of your children’s friends to allow you to work together.

4. Students and parents should be aware of the rules of the school. Be aware of school dress codes and create your own personal standards as well.

5. Be able to say NO.

6. Follow through with consequences.

7. Be able to listen to your kids.

8. Don’t let your kids manipulate you.

9. Allow your children to use you as an excuse if they are afraid to tell their friends they don’t want to do something.

10. Be aware of the signs of drug and/or alcohol use.

11. Keep kids away from needing to have a job to support a car and/or insurance.

12. Encourage a full high school program for four years.

13. When in doubt, call school.

14. Balance is healthy: academics/family/social/community activities.

15. Proper eating and sleep habits are essential.

16. Attendance is everything. Truancies, sweeps and tardies keep the student from the learning environment and invite negative consequences.

17. Students should be at school except when they are sick.

18. Monitor student use of text messaging and on line journals.