Start the year with confidence and Christ: tips for grade school students and parents

Tracy Jansen was recognized as the archdiocese’s 2024-25 “Principal of the Year” for her leadership of St. Mary-of-the-Knobs School in Floyd County. (Submitted photo)

By John Shaughnessy

As a mother of two and an educator of 23 years, Tracy Jansen knows “there’s always something new to learn.”

Hoping to share her knowledge with grade school children and their parents, the archdiocese’s 2024-25 “Principal of the Year” offers these “practical tips to help families kick off the school year with confidence, Christ and a strong foundation.”

She starts with Advice for parents to help their grade school children make the most of the school year:

1. Establish a routine.

“In the evenings, this might include having dinner together, setting aside time for homework, and prepping lunches, outfits and backpacks the night before,” says Jansen, the principal of St. Mary-of-the-Knobs School in Floyd County. “Gradually offering your child more responsibility with these tasks builds independence and confidence.

“Set clear expectations for the morning routine, too. And give yourself some grace. If it doesn’t go smoothly, remember, you get another chance tomorrow.”
 

2. Put away devices, pick up a book.

“Be intentional about putting devices away well before bedtime and creating an expectation of reading before sleep. Whether you’re reading to your child, with them or they’re reading independently, the benefits are endless.”
 

3. Stress the importance of sleep.

“It’s essential for your child’s cognitive and emotional well-being. Check the recommended sleep hours by age and plan bedtimes accordingly.”
 

4. Label everything.

“If you’ve ever seen the overflowing lost-and-found table at school, you’ll understand the importance of labeling. Label everything: water bottles, lunch boxes, pencil pouches, binders, folders, notebooks, and especially jacket and sweatshirt tags. If it leaves the house, label it!”
 

5. Communicate with teachers.

“Strong parent-teacher communication is key to your child’s success. It ensures that your child receives the support they need, both academically and personally. If your school hosts a back-to-school night, be sure to attend. Introduce yourself to the teacher and consider sending a follow-up e-mail with relevant information—such as allergies, special needs or any details that could help them better understand your child. This is also a great opportunity to express interest in volunteering.”
 

6. Make the most of quality time.

“Children learn so much from simply being with their parents. Their natural curiosity needs to be nurtured, and small moments count. Car rides are a great opportunity to connect. Consider a no-device rule in the car—except on long road trips—and use that time for meaningful conversation.

“Kids often open up more when they’re not face-to-face, and even the quiet ones may share more in this setting. Try using open-ended questions instead of just, “Did you have a good day?”
 

7. Find time to pray together.

“Morning commutes are a perfect time for prayer. If one of your children is a fluent reader, ask them to read the daily Gospel aloud from a Catholic prayer app. Reflect together as a family. It’s a simple way to bring your concerns and gratitude to God—whether it’s by saying a Hail Mary, an Our Father or a short prayer from the heart. These small acts show your child how to naturally incorporate prayer into everyday life.”
 

8. Take care of yourself.

“Parenting is rewarding, but let’s be honest—it’s also exhausting. That’s why daily self-care is essential. Beyond getting enough sleep, staying active or enjoying the occasional pedicure, don’t overlook your spiritual well-being. I find that when I have more stability in my spiritual practices, I can combat stressors and obstacles in my everyday life so much more effectively.

“We need to remember that Jesus himself tells us to come to him, and he will give us rest! What parent doesn’t need that? Find 5-10 minutes where you can intentionally integrate this time into your daily schedule. The Hallow App is a great resource—user-friendly and full of meaningful content. You’ll never regret the time spent in prayer.”

A three-step plan for grade school students to have success in school

In her 23 years as an educator and as a mother of two, Tracy Jansen has come up with a great plan for helping you make the most of this new school year.

“Doesn’t it feel awesome when you accomplish something—like finishing a Lego set or winning a game?” she asks grade school students. “Even small tasks, like making your bed, can give you that same good feeling. The more small victories you achieve, the more confident and independent you’ll become.”

The path to success all starts by “making three simple lists,” says Jansen. “You can write them yourself and share them with your parents—or create them together.”
 

1. What I need to do each night before bed:

“For example, pack your lunch and backpack for tomorrow, take a bath/shower, put on pajamas, brush teeth, read, say my prayers.”
 

2. What I need to do each morning before school:

“Set your alarm for 6:30 a.m., get dressed, make your bed and eat breakfast.”
 

3. What I need to do each afternoon after school:

“Some examples include eat a snack, play outside for one hour, do your homework and eat dinner.

“Keep your lists where you can see them—like the fridge, a bulletin board or your nightstand. If possible, use a dry-erase board so you can check off items daily and adjust the lists as needed. Try completing your list without reminders—you’ll impress your parents and feel proud of yourself.

“Starting the school year with great routines sets you up for success—not just this year, but for years to come.” †

 

Related: School has begun! Tips for students and parents on making the most of the year