School counselors make a measurable impact in every student's life, assisting with academics,    career and personal/social development. Professional school counselors are trained in both educating and counseling, allowing them to function as a facilitator between parents, teachers and students in matters concerning the student's goals, abilities and any area needing improvement. School counselors provide services not only to students in need, but to all students.

 

The beginning of a school year is an excellent opportunity to initiate contact with your child's school counselor. Find out who the counselor is and what his/her experience and background are. By communicating with one another at the beginning, middle and end of the school year, parents and counselors can have a definite impact on a child's success.

 

As a parent, you know your child best. However, the school counselor can help you better understand your child as a student. It is important to encourage your child's expression of needs, hopes and frustrations. School counselors are trained to help children.

 

When you need information or assistance, your counselor can help you get in touch with the appropriate school officials; learn about school policies on behavior, attendance and dress code; know the school calendar of important dates. The school counselor also can help you locate resources in the community when you need them.

 

If your child is having a problem at school, it is important to work with your school counselor to find solutions. Discuss resources available within and outside of the school, and get information on how such programs can benefit your child.

 

 

Fathers, you can be involved with your child while at school. Visit our Hodge WatchD.O.G.S website for more information.

 

The Importance of Establishing Healthy Sleep Habits

Elementary School-Age Children

From ages two through nine typically need 13 to 10 hours per night. Too many children are not getting adequate sleep. We now know that chronic sleep deprivation has many consequences. Children who do not receive adequate sleep are not as attentive, are prone to be more irritable, can be hyperactive, and/or may appear flat in their mood. Bedtime difficulties can arise at this age from a child's need for private time with parents, without siblings around. Try to make a little private time just before bedtime and use it to share confidences and have small discussions, which will also prepare your child for sleep.

Establishing a Bedtime Routine

Here's a summary of a few ways that may help your child ease into a good night's sleep:

• Include a winding-down period in the routine.
• Stick to a bedtime, alerting your child both half an hour and 10 minutes beforehand.
• Allow your child to choose which pajamas to wear, stuffed animal to take to bed, etc.
• Consider playing soft, soothing music.
• Tuck your child into bed snugly for a feeling of security.

There isn't one sure way to raise a good sleeper, but every parent should be encouraged to know that most kids have the ability to sleep well. The key is to try, from early on, to establish healthy sleep habits.