• adjust to new academic demands,
• close learning gaps, and
• build long-term confidence.

With research-backed benefits and tailored support, tutoring at the start of the school year can significantly improve grades, engagement, and motivation.

Unlock the secrets to back-to-school here.

What Is Back-to-School Tutoring?

Back-to-school tutoring refers to academic support that begins at or before the start of the school year. These sessions help students refresh core skills, adjust to new curricula, and establish strong study habits from day one.

Why Is Back-to-School the Best Time to Start Tutoring?

The first 6–8 weeks of school are critical for setting the tone of a student’s academic year. Performance in the early months often predicts outcomes for the rest of the year.

Benefits of starting tutoring early include:

• Help with the “summer slide” in academic retention
• Identifying learning gaps before they widen
• Building confidence and routine from the start
• Supporting transitions (e.g., from elementary to middle school, or middle to high school)

Which Students Benefit Most From Back-to-School Tutoring?

Students who are:

• Entering a new grade level
• Transitioning between school systems or provinces
• Recovering from learning loss (e.g., post-pandemic gaps)
• Struggling with executive function (organization, focus, etc.)
• Preparing for standardized tests like provincial exams, SAT or AP exams

How Does Tutoring Work in the First Months of School?

Tutoring at the beginning of the school year focuses on setting the foundation for long-term academic success. Here’s what most programs offer during this period:

Diagnostic Assessments

Most tutoring programs begin with skill assessments to identify areas of strength and any learning gaps. These are often aligned with provincial curriculum standards.

Customized Programs

Tutoring plans are tailored to each student’s grade level and needs, whether they’re building math skills, improving reading fluency, or developing study habits.

Flexible Scheduling

Sessions are typically offered after school, on weekends, or online to fit into busy family routines.

Progress Tracking

Tools like Oxford Learning’s Dynamic Assessment provide parents with regular updates, helping them stay involved in their child’s progress.

By focusing on these elements, tutoring helps students start strong and stay on track throughout the year.

What Subjects Are Most in Demand?

In the fall, the most requested subjects are:

1. Math tutoring (fractions, algebra, functions, etc.)
2. Reading comprehension and literacy
3. Writing support (grammar, structure, essay writing, etc.)
4. French immersion help
5. Study skills and organization coaching
   

Is There Data Showing That Early Tutoring Works?

Yes. A 2021 Johns Hopkins University study found that students who received consistent early tutoring showed a 10–15 percentile increase in math and reading scores compared to peers.

Additional findings:

• The Canadian Tutoring Standard notes that early intervention tutoring boosts long-term academic resilience.
  
• Students with tutoring in September and October showed stronger improvements than those who began later in the year.

How to Choose the Right Tutoring Program?

When evaluating a tutoring service, look for:

• Certified educators or trained tutors
• Clear alignment with the school curriculum
• Regular progress reports and assessments
• Flexible modalities (in-person, online, hybrid)
• Positive reviews and parent testimonials

Some popular tutoring frameworks include:

• Oxford Learning’s Cognitive Learning Approach
• The Science of Learning Framework
• The Feynman Technique for deeper conceptual understanding

Back-to-School Tutoring Tips for Parents

• Book early as spots in the autumn fill up fast.
• Communicate with your child’s teacher and share concerns or insights with the tutor.
• Build a routine and schedule tutoring at consistent times.
• Track progress by asking for regular updates and setting realistic goals.

Why Starting the School Year with Tutoring Makes a Difference

Starting tutoring at the beginning of the school year isn’t just about catching up; it’s about getting ahead. From improved grades to stronger confidence, early academic support helps students navigate the challenges of a new school year with clarity and success.

Want your child to start strong this year? 

Contact us for a free consultation, book an assessment or schedule your child’s first session today.

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The post Back-to-School Tutoring: Why It’s a Smart Investment for Academic Success appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

In traditional settings, learning tends to follow a cycle: ramp up in August/September, slow down in May/June, and pause during school breaks. But this stop-start approach can lead to a loss of momentum, especially during longer breaks like summer or winter holidays. We call this the summer slide. How can we prevent the summer slide? 

Well, that’s where Oxford Learning comes into play.

We approach learning as a continuous journey for year-round learning, not a seasonal event. Whether students are on summer vacation, winter break, or somewhere in between, our programs are designed to keep their minds engaged and growing. 

The result? Stronger academic performance, better confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Summer? Still Learning.

Summer learning loss, also known as the “summer slide,” is real. Research shows that students can lose up to two months of academic progress over the summer. That means each fall starts with playing catch-up instead of building on what was learned the year before.

We turn summer into a time of growth. With customized programs, flexible schedules, and fun, interactive lessons, students strengthen their skills, explore new subjects, and build momentum for the school year ahead.

Instead of falling behind, our students move forward.

School Break? Still Building Brainpower.

School breaks, such as winter or spring break, are a chance to rest, but they’re also a chance to reinforce learning in impactful ways. 

Our year-round learning tutoring programs help students:

• Review challenging concepts in a stress-free setting
• Stay in a routine that supports focus and discipline
• Boost skills like reading, writing, and math without the classroom pressure
• Return to school feeling confident, not overwhelmed

Whether it’s a long weekend, a winter holiday, or spring break, our programs meet students where they’re at and help them get where they want to go.

Oxford Learning? Still Changing the Game.

What makes Oxford Learning different isn’t just what we teach, it’s how we teach and why we teach. We go beyond memorization. Our focus is on developing the cognitive learning skills that drive real, lasting success:

• Critical thinking
• Organization and time management
• Problem-solving
• Motivation and confidence
• Independent learning habits
  

When students see learning as something they own, not something that’s assigned to them, their mindset shifts, they become more curious, engaged, and resilient, and that mindset lasts far beyond the classroom.

Real Results. Real Growth. Year-Round Learning for the Win!

Parents often tell us how surprised they are to see their child voluntarily reading during the summer, or excited to attend a learning session over the break. That’s not magic, it’s motivation. It’s what happens when learning becomes part of who you are, not just something you do during school hours.

And it works.

Our students consistently show improvements in academic performance, self-confidence, and overall engagement in school. They don’t just get better grades. They become better learners.

Make Learning a Lifestyle All Year Round

We believe every moment is a learning opportunity, whether school is in session or not. When students embrace this mindset, they stop seeing learning as a chore and start seeing it as a tool for growth, creativity, and confidence.

Ready for Year-Round Learning?

Contact your local Oxford Learning centre to learn more about our year-round programs and how we can help your child become an unstoppable learner.

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The post Why Learning Shouldn’t Stop, Even When School Does appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Summer to September

Gone are the leisurely mornings of sleeping in, eating breakfast on the couch, and meeting up with friends at noon. Transitioning from relaxed summer habits to structured school routines can feel like a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be! With the right approach, reestablishing a school routine might take only a few days, but once in place, it provides the consistency kids need for academic success.

Unlock the secrets to understanding back-to-school here.

Six Great School Routine Tips!

Ready to create effective routines for your household? Here are some excellent school routine tips that can make the school year smoother for everyone:

1. Use an Agenda: Schedule activities, appointments, chores, and even reading time! Writing things down and crossing them off helps kids get in the habit of managing their time effectively. Plus, it fosters responsibility, ensuring each task is completed on time.
2. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Routine: Sticking to the same bedtime every night (yes, even on weekends!) helps children feel rested and ready for the school day. A consistent sleep schedule can make Monday mornings much more manageable.
3. Share a Family Meal: Whether it’s breakfast, dinner, or even a quick snack together before bed, sharing one meal as a family each day helps establish a predictable routine. It’s also a great way to review the day and connect as a family.
4. Plan Outfits the Night Before: Avoid the what-to-wear blues by picking out clothes the night before. This small step eliminates morning stress and ensures no last-minute searches for that favourite t-shirt!
5. Make Morning Routines Fun: Give your child some independence in the morning by playing a song or two as a fun reminder that it’s time to get ready. When the music stops, it’s time to be dressed and downstairs—no nagging needed!
6. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Encourage your child to wind down by reading, journaling, or listening to soothing music at the end of the day. A calm bedtime routine helps them sleep better and prepares them for the next school day.

Navigate back-to-school like a pro—read the guide here.

A Boost of Confidence

While routines may seem rigid, they foster children’s independence and self-confidence. When kids know what to expect from their daily tasks, they feel in control of their day and their responsibilities. These school routine tips help boost their sense of accomplishment, leading to greater success at school and home.

Need More School Routine Tips? 

If your child is having difficulties falling back into the school routine, we can help! We’ve got many school routine tips to help set your child up for success. Find a location near you to learn more. 

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The post School’s Back and So Are Routines! appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Starting a new school year can be tough for students. With so much focus on back-to-school prep, students pay little attention to what happens after the back-to-school rush is over and the school year is underway

Students need school-year tips for success just as much as they do for back-to-school time!

A Strong Start

Smarter school-year tips are not just for back-to-school time! Following these tips can help students of all ages begin a new grade on the right foot and establish good habits early on that can carry them through the whole school year. The right habits are important, helping students manage school stress

But not all school years start off strong: in fact, students typically spend the first 4-6 weeks of a new grade reviewing material from last year before starting on this year’s learning. It can take up to six weeks into the new school year for students to be caught up and ready to begin learning new material.

During this time, as students are readjusting to school year routines and getting comfortable with this year’s teachers and classmates, last year’s bad habits can slip back in.

5 Tips For a Strong School Start

1. Review last year’s homework
2. Try a few math problems
3. Reread an old essay
4. Set and follow bedtime and morning routines
5. Use a planner or agenda to stay organized.

Unlock the secrets to back-to-school here.

A Better School Year Begins Here

New routines, subjects, and homework can make students excited and nervous…but one thing students shouldn’t be is unprepared!

Watch and learn how Oxford Learning’s programs can help students of all ages ensure that the new school year is one full of great learning habits and routines that lead to success both in and out of the classroom.

Find a location near you and enrol today!

The post Smarter School Year Tips appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Signs to Watch For Getting Off to a Good Start

1. Weak Self-Esteem or Confidence

As children mature, social issues often emerge alongside academic challenges. This transition can trigger problems with self-esteem, making it vital to help your child believe in themselves. Instead of saying, “You have to study harder to pass Math,” try, “I can see that you are upset about your mark in Math. How can we work together to overcome this difficult situation?” This approach reinforces their ability to overcome challenges and boosts their confidence.

2. Lack of Organization

The demands of school, friends, sports, and even part-time jobs can be overwhelming for students. Keeping them organized is key to success. Encourage the use of a day planner to track assignments, tests, and projects. Consider enrolling them in courses that develop advanced planning and organizational skills.

3. Not Setting Goals

At this age, long-term planning often extends only to the next weekend. It’s crucial for students to begin setting and working towards both academic and personal goals. If necessary, seek help from educators or tutors to guide them in this process.

4. Weak Basic Skills

Strong foundational skills in spelling, grammar, reading comprehension, and math are essential by this stage. If your child struggles in any of these areas, take immediate action to provide the support they need.

School Success Tips for the First Three Weeks

Social issues often become more prominent as children mature, and these can hurt academic challenges. The first three weeks are important for helping your child build confidence. A school success tip is to try offering support instead of expressing frustration over a poor grade. For example, “I can see that you are upset about your mark in math. How can we work together to overcome this difficult situation?” This approach fosters a problem-solving mindset.

Your child may struggle to balance friendships, sports, and even part-time jobs as social pressures increase. It’s crucial to keep an eye on their day planner, ensuring they are managing their time effectively. Many excellent courses are available to help children develop advanced planning and organization skills—consider enrolling your child if this is an area of concern.

For students in Grades 7 and 8, goal-setting becomes increasingly important. Long-term planning may still seem abstract, with many students focusing only on the upcoming weekend. Help your child start thinking ahead by setting achievable goals and creating plans to reach them. If necessary, seek the support of a supplemental education specialist to strengthen your child’s basic academic skills.

School Success Tips for the Second Three Weeks

As the school year progresses, a school success tip is to continue your support. Reinforce the use of a day planner, monitoring it daily to ensure that assignments, tests, and projects are broken down into manageable tasks. By this stage, students should be working on additional academic tasks in the evening, even beyond their assigned homework.

Celebrate when your child meets their goals and assist them in setting new ones. These goals should include both personal and academic aspirations, helping your child develop a well-rounded approach to success.

By this point in school, it’s essential that all academic skills are strong. Your child should be proficient in spelling, grammar, reading comprehension, and math. If any gaps remain, take immediate action to address them.

School Success Tips for Parents

• Regularly encourage your child with their homework and assignments. Show interest in their academic progress.
• Instill a strong work ethic and set high but realistic standards for academic excellence.
• Make schoolwork a priority over non-academic activities. Ensure your child has a quiet, distraction-free place to study.
• Meet with your child’s teachers to stay informed about their progress and any areas of concern. Understand your child’s academic strengths and weaknesses.
• Keep reference materials like books, dictionaries, and encyclopedias readily available at home to support their studies.

Check out more back-to-school strategies in our back-to-school guide here.

Need More School Success Tips? 

The first six weeks of school are important for setting the tone for the rest of the year. By closely monitoring these key areas and providing the necessary support, you can help your child get off to a strong start and set the foundation for a successful school year.

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The post The First Six Weeks of School — Grades 7 to 8 appeared first on Oxford Learning.

What to Watch For in the First Six Weeks

Students should have a solid foundation in basic skills such as reading, writing, spelling, and math during these years. If your child is struggling with these skills, it’s important to take action promptly. Weaknesses in these areas can put them at risk as the curriculum becomes more challenging.

Additionally, while homework becomes more routine, it’s important to ensure that it doesn’t overwhelm your child. Too much time spent on homework may indicate difficulties with time management or a need for additional support.

School Readiness Tips for the First Three Weeks

The first few weeks of school are critical for establishing good habits and routines. Here are some tips to help your child navigate this time effectively.

1. Reinforce the Use of a Day Planner

A day planner is essential for students in Grades 4 to 6. Encourage your child to use it daily to write down homework assignments, deadlines, after-school activities, and upcoming quizzes and tests. This habit will help them stay organized and manage their time more effectively.

2. Address Weaknesses in Basic Academic Skills

If your child is struggling with reading, writing, or math, consider seeking help from a supplemental education specialist, such as an Oxford Learning tutor. Early intervention can prevent these challenges from impacting their overall academic performance.

3. Be Patient with Homework Routines

It’s common for homework routines to take a few weeks to become established. Don’t be alarmed if the workload seems light or inconsistent during this period. Teachers are often still setting expectations and gradually increasing the demands on students.

School Readiness Tips for the Second Three Weeks

As the school routine becomes more settled, it’s important to continue supporting your child’s development. Here are some strategies for the next three weeks.

1. Maintain the Day Planner Habit

Continue to encourage your child to use their day planner daily. Monitor their planner to ensure they are keeping track of assignments and deadlines. This consistency will help them develop strong organizational skills that will be valuable throughout their academic career.

2. Monitor Homework Time

Keep an eye on how much time your child spends on homework each night. For students in Grade 4, spending more than half an hour on homework may indicate they are struggling to complete their work during school hours. For students in Grades 5 and 6, spending more than an hour on homework could suggest they need help with organization or that they are facing difficulties with the material.

3. Seek Additional Support if Needed

If your child continues to struggle with basic academic skills, don’t hesitate to seek additional support. A supplemental education specialist can provide targeted assistance to help your child build the skills they need to succeed.

Check out more back-to-school strategies in our back-to-school guide here.

Need More School Readiness Tips? 

The first six weeks of school are pivotal for students in Grades 4 to 6. By developing organizational solid habits and addressing any academic weaknesses early on, you can help your child navigate this transition smoothly and set the stage for a successful school year. 

If your child needs additional support, our professionals at Oxford Learning are here to help!

Find a Location

The post The First Six Weeks of School — Grades 4 to 6 appeared first on Oxford Learning.

The beginning of the school year is exciting yet challenging for young children. As they transition from the relaxed days of summer to the structured classroom environment, it’s natural for them to encounter a few bumps along the way. Parents and educators can play a crucial role in helping children get off to a good start. 

Here’s what to watch for and some school readiness tips for your child during the first six weeks of school.

Common Challenges for Young Learners

Young children often face difficulties in several areas as they adjust to school:

• Concentration and Attention: It’s common for young students to struggle with concentrating and paying attention during the first few weeks. The new classroom environment can be overwhelming with its many rules and routines.
• Learning Basics: Mastering foundational skills like reading, writing, and math may take time. Some children may struggle to grasp these concepts initially, leading to frustration.
• Organization: Organizing school materials and keeping track of assignments can be a significant hurdle. Young children may need help understanding the importance of staying organized.

School Readiness Tips for the First Three Weeks

The first three weeks are critical for setting the tone for the rest of the school year. Here’s how parents can help their children adjust.

Reduce Social Media Time

Learning to pay attention to a teacher in the classroom can be challenging, especially so in the world of social media.  Research shows that attention spans are greatly reduced, even for young students. Encourage screen-free activities like reading or crafts, especially during school hours, when students are discouraged from having access to screens.

Introduce Basic Planning Skills 

The primary grades focus on teaching fundamental academic skills, such as reading, writing, and math. While formal planning might not be necessary at this stage, it’s a great time to introduce your child to the concept. Give them a planner and encourage them to write down their activities, like soccer games or birthday parties. This low-pressure introduction to planning will build a foundation for future organizational skills.

Focus on Basic Academic Skills

The primary grades are a critical time for learning foundational reading, writing, and math skills. By the end of Grade 3, students should read fluently, write with minimal spelling mistakes, and grasp basic math concepts. Supporting your child in these areas from the start can make a big difference in their academic success.

Check out this guide on everything you need to know about back-to-school.

School Readiness Tips for the Second Three Weeks

As the initial excitement of the new school year wears off, the next three weeks are crucial for reinforcing good habits and skills:

Enhance Concentration and Listening

Continue to build your child’s concentration by playing games like Parcheesi and Concentration. These games require focus and strategy, helping your child to develop the mental discipline needed for the classroom.

Engage in Reading and Wordplay

Reading should be an interactive and enjoyable experience. Break words into syllables, play listening games, and practice sounding out words together. Don’t just read stories—discuss them, ask questions, and let your imagination run wild. Who did what? Why? What could have happened differently? Make reading a fun and engaging activity that your child looks forward to every evening.

Reinforce Planning and Time Management

As teachers begin assigning reading, projects, or homework, encourage your child to enter these tasks into their planner. By making this a routine, you’re helping them build time management skills that will become invaluable as they progress through school.

School Readiness for the First Six Weeks

The first six weeks of school are a formative period for young children. By being proactive and supportive, parents can help their children overcome initial challenges and set them on a path to success. 

Remember, learning should be fun and engaging—so play games, be silly, and most importantly, enjoy the process together. By fostering these skills early on, you’re setting your child up for a lifetime of academic achievement and personal growth.

Need More Back-to-School Strategies? 

By applying these school readiness strategies, your child will be better prepared to embrace the new school year with confidence and enthusiasm.

Remember that every child is unique, so tailor these strategies to fit their specific needs and preferences. If you need further support for back-to-school, our experts at Oxford Learning are here to assist you!

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The post The First Six Weeks of School—Grades 1 to 3 appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Seven Back-to-School Strategies

1. Establish a Consistent Routine

The first back-to-school strategy is the most important—establishing a routine. Creating a consistent daily schedule helps students manage their time effectively and reduces anxiety about the unknown. Start by setting regular wake-up and bedtime routines to ensure adequate rest. Make specific times for homework, extracurricular activities, and relaxation. Consistency helps students feel more in control and less stressed about the demands of a new school year.

2. Set Clear Goals

Encourage students to set academic and personal goals for the year. Goals provide direction and motivation, helping students focus on their goals. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate progress. Whether improving grades in a particular subject or joining a new club, having clear objectives can inspire students to stay committed.

Learn more about setting goals for the year ahead here.

3. Organize Supplies and Study Spaces

A well-organized study space can really help enhance a student’s ability to concentrate, learn, and improve academically. Help them set up a clutter-free study area at home that minimizes distractions and promotes focus. It’s important to ensure that students have all necessary school supplies, such as notebooks, pens, textbooks, etc. Most school districts will have a back-to-school supplies list; check with your student’s school.

4. Encourage Open Communication

Open lines of communication between students, parents, and teachers are vital for a successful school year. Encourage students to voice any concerns or questions about their classes or workload. Parents should maintain regular contact with teachers to stay informed about their child’s progress and potential challenges. Building a supportive network ensures that issues are addressed promptly and collaboratively.

5. Develop Effective Study Habits

Help your child develop effective study habits that promote active learning and retention. Encourage techniques such as Cognitive Learning, creating flashcards, and teaching concepts to others. Time management skills can also enhance productivity, like breaking study sessions into focused intervals with short breaks (the Pomodoro Technique)—tailor study strategies to suit each student’s learning style for optimal results.

6. Emphasize the Importance of Self-Care

Remind your child that taking care of their physical and mental well-being is crucial for academic success. Encourage regular physical activity, healthy eating, and adequate sleep to support their energy levels and concentration. Teach stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness to help them manage anxiety during busy times. A balanced approach to life ensures that they can tackle challenges with resilience.

7. Consider Tutoring Support

If students encounter difficulties in certain subjects, consider enrolling them in tutoring to provide personalized support. Tutors can help identify areas of weakness, reinforce key concepts, and build confidence in challenging subjects. Early intervention can prevent students from falling behind and boost their overall performance throughout the year.

Get the full details on back-to-school here.

Need More Back-to-School Strategies? 

By implementing these strategies, students can confidently and enthusiastically approach the new school year. Remember that every student is unique, so adapting these strategies to suit individual needs and preferences is important. If you need more assistance with back-to-school, speak with one of our professionals at Oxford Learning. We are here to help!

Find a Location

The post 7 Back-to-School Strategies for a Successful Start appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Whether you’re a student eager to start a new academic year, a parent looking to support your child’s education, or an educator planning the curriculum, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and successful back-to-school experience.

Click on the link to jump to a back-to-school subject that you’re interested in. 

1. Getting ready for the new school year
2. Achieving academic preparedness
3. Prioritizing health and wellness
4. Navigating back-to-school shopping
5. Fostering parent-teacher collaboration
6. Leveraging technology in education
7. Identifying the need for tutoring

Getting Ready for the New School Year

Preparing for the new school year involves more than just buying supplies; it’s about setting up for success. 

Start by organizing supplies. Before the first day of school, create a comprehensive checklist that includes essentials like notebooks, pens, pencils, binders, and backpacks. Some school boards even give parents a list of must-haves before school begins, so make sure to check with your school before heading off to the shops. 

Setting up a study space is just as important as buying school supplies. Designate a dedicated study area at home to help enhance your child’s focus and productivity. This space should be quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions, and it should be stocked with all necessary materials to facilitate effective learning. 

Additionally, establishing routines is crucial for managing time effectively. Consider implementing a consistent daily routine that includes regular bedtime and wake-up times. Try to designate periods for homework and ample time for relaxation and hobbies. Students can create an organized, efficient, and balanced approach to the new school year by focusing on these key areas.

Learn more about getting back to school ready here. 

Achieving Academic Preparedness

Before the new school year approaches, revisit the previous year’s material to refresh your child’s memory. Reviewing last year’s material can help establish a solid foundation for learning new concepts. Reviewing notes and textbooks can help reinforce what they’ve already learned, making it easier to connect with new topics. 

A key strategy for academic success is setting goals using the CAM system for the upcoming year. Whether you’re aiming to improve your grades, master a new subject, or develop better study habits, having clear objectives can motivate and guide your efforts throughout the year. Here is how to use the CAM system:

• Clearly state goals while being as specific as possible.
• Make it achievable by setting realistic targets for improvement.
• Have measurable goals and set milestones to track progress and boost motivation.

Utilizing educational resources can greatly enhance anyone’s learning experience. Try exploring online courses and educational apps that can supplement your child’s studies. Remember the wealth of materials available through libraries and school resources, which can provide valuable support in your child’s educational journey. 

By reviewing past materials, setting clear goals, and leveraging available resources, you can help your child create a proactive and effective approach to the new school year.

Prioritizing Health and Wellness

Importance of Sleep

Getting enough sleep is important for academic success and overall well-being. A good amount of sleep can significantly impact focus, memory, and mood. Establishing a bedtime routine that allows for 8-10 hours of sleep each night is essential. These hours ensure the body and mind are well-rested and ready for the day’s challenges. 

Try creating a calming pre-sleep routine, such as reading a book or listening to soft music, which can help signal to your child’s body that it’s time to wind down. Avoid screens and stimulating activities before bed, and try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day—yes, even on weekends—to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.

Nutrition Tips

A balanced diet helps to support cognitive function and energy levels, which are essential for maintaining focus and stamina throughout the school day. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins in your child’s diet to provide the necessary nutrients for optimal brain function. Eating a nutritious breakfast can kickstart their metabolism and improve concentration. Always try to avoid sugary snacks and beverages, as they can lead to energy crashes, and make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water.

Mental Health Awareness

Stress and anxiety can impact academic performance and overall well-being, so it’s important to prioritize mental health. Practice mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, to help manage stress and cultivate a sense of calm and focus. Engaging in regular physical activity can also reduce stress and improve mood. 

If feelings of stress or anxiety become overwhelming, have your child seek support from counsellors, trusted adults, or mental health professionals. It’s so important to build a support network of friends, family, and mentors who can provide encouragement and perspective during challenging times. Remember that taking care of your and your child’s mental health is just as important as your physical health.

You can find more information on mental health and back-to-school here.

**Please note: if you or your child is struggling with mental health, please seek help from a trained professional.

Navigating Back-to-School Shopping

Heading back to school means it’s time to gather all the essential supplies for a successful year. Make sure you have everything your child will need, including: 

• Notebooks, binders, and folders
• Pencils, pens, and highlighters
• Sturdy backpack and lunchbox 

While back-to-school shopping can get expensive, there are ways to save money. Look for sales, use coupons, and consider buying in bulk. Reusing items from the previous year if they’re still in good condition can also help stretch your budget. 

Check out our school shopping list here.

Fostering Parent-Teacher Collaboration

Building a strong relationship with your child’s teachers is important for enhancing their educational experience. Attending parent-teacher meetings, volunteering at school events, and maintaining open lines of communication can foster a positive partnership. Effective communication addresses concerns and keeps everyone informed about your child’s progress. Try to use emails, phone calls, and school portals to help you stay connected with teachers. 

Additionally, participating in school activities, such as PTA meetings and school events, fosters a sense of community and support for students while providing opportunities to stay engaged with your child’s education.

Leveraging Technology in Education

Useful Educational Apps

Support school learning with online educational resources and apps that can make learning interactive and engaging. Khan Academy offers courses in various subjects with video tutorials and exercises. Quizlet is great for creating flashcards and quizzes, helping students understand key facts. Duolingo provides a fun way to learn languages through interactive lessons. Evernote helps organize notes and study materials, while Google Classroom facilitates assignment submissions and teacher communication.

Managing Screen Time

While educational apps are beneficial, excessive screen time can affect health and academics. Set clear limits on recreational screen use and encourage regular breaks, such as the Pomodoro Technique, which alternates study with short breaks. Promote physical activity and establish tech-free zones at home. Model healthy habits by balancing screen time with offline activities like reading and games.

Cyber Safety Tips

Teaching students about cyber safety is essential. They should protect personal information and recognize cyberbullying, reporting it to a trusted adult. Emphasize responsible online behaviour, including using strong passwords and reviewing privacy settings regularly. Encourage downloading apps only from trusted sources to avoid malware.

Maximizing Learning with Tutoring 

Identifying the Need for Tutoring

Students sometimes need extra help grasping challenging concepts and identifying the need for tutoring can prevent academic struggles from escalating. Signs that a student might benefit from tutoring include consistently low grades, difficulty keeping up with class material, or a noticeable lack of confidence in their abilities. By addressing these issues early on, students can improve their understanding and maintain academic progress.

Here are seven ways that tutoring can help your child with back-to-school.

Finding the Right Tutor

Oxford Learning offers personalized programs tailored to each student’s unique needs and learning style, ensuring the material is accessible and engaging. Our tutors are highly qualified and trained to teach various subjects, making them well-equipped to help students improve their understanding and academic performance.

Oxford Learning’s teaching methods are grounded in research-based educational strategies that focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and study skills. This holistic approach helps students grasp challenging concepts and builds a strong foundation for future learning.

Making the Most of Tutoring Sessions

To maximize the benefits of tutoring, students should come prepared with specific questions or topics they find challenging. This focused approach helps make the most of each session, ensuring that time is spent addressing the student’s most pressing needs. After the session, students should regularly review and practice what they learned to reinforce understanding and retention. This consistent effort not only solidifies new knowledge but also builds the student’s confidence in the subject matter.

Ready to see how Oxford Learning can help your child with back-to-school?

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The post Everything You Need to Know About Back-to-School appeared first on Oxford Learning.

With a few weeks of school under students’ belts, the school year begins in earnest. Tests. Homework. Studying. But also procrastinating, daydreaming in class, and forgetting assignments.

If back-to-school is a sprint, then the rest of the school year is a marathon! This New-School-Year-Tips Roundup helps students prevent last year’s problems from reappearing, maintain momentum, and set the pace for success this school year!

New-School-Year-Tips Roundup

Homework

Homework is a fact of life for students. The sooner students develop a reliable homework routine, the less stressful homework becomes. Check out the following articles for our top homework tips.

• Is homework piling up? These 11 Tips can help your child manage homework overload.
• If homework is taking over your living room or dining room table, setting up a study studio can help contain homework messes and keep your child organized during homework time.
• If your child is trying to do too many things at once, they may need support to stop multitasking.
• When students find homework stressful, it’s natural to want to help. It’s important to understand how to help students effectively.

Study Skills

Before you know it, the first unit will be over, and it’s time for a test! Studying can be stressful, especially because many students are unsure how to study effectively. Turn studying from stressful to stress-free with these tips:

• Make study notes. Taking notes while studying engages more parts of the brain, which makes study time active and boosts retention. Here’s how to take effective study notes.
• Studying is more than simply reading over notes. These study techniques help students study effectively, making the most of their study time.
• The best study tips actually happen in class by taking proper class notes.
• Self-quizzing is an effective way to identify any areas that need more review.

Habits & Routines

What happens at home is as important as what happens in school. Health and well-being play a vital role in learning and motivation in school. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Getting too much or too little sleep. Sleep habits are vital to student success.
• Procrastination at school can negatively impact students, leading to poor school performance, lower grades, and higher school stress. Here’s how to overcome procrastination.
• Too much screen time can have many negative effects, such as social/emotional issues, mental and physical health issues, and even academic issues.
• Poor organization skills can cause stress both in and out of school. Learn how to help students overcome disorganization.

Maintain Learning Momentum With Oxford Learning

Personalized learning programs at Oxford Learning help students avoid the pitfalls of past school years, maintain their learning momentum, and stay on track for the entire school year.

Discover everything you need to know about back-to-school.

The post Maintaining Momentum Beyond The First Weeks of School appeared first on Oxford Learning.