It doesn’t matter if this is your first child or your fourth.  Every child’s school experience is different, and it can be so heartbreaking, exhilarating, and downright frustrating when it’s time to send them to school.  I’ve only been through it once so far, but I’ve seen it from the teacher end many times.   When parents send their kids to middle school, there’s this crazy phenomenon that takes place.  The children think they want to be independent, but they really want their parents to stand behind them for support—much like teaching your kids how to ride a bike without training wheels, when you’re hovering behind them in case they fall.  Parents, on the other hand, say that they want their kids to become independent but somehow involve themselves in everything school-and-otherwise related, sometimes even doing their kids assignments and projects to make sure it’s done correctly.  Sound familiar?  If you’re struggling with the parental end of things, you should check out The Christian Mama’s Guide to the Grade School Years: Everything You Need to Know to Survive (and Love) Sending Your Kid Off into the Big Wide World.

Contrary to what the name might imply, you don’t have to be a Christian mama to enjoy this book.  There are Biblical references throughout the book; however, I think the main ideas would beneficial to ANY parent who is facing the prospect of sending a child to school.  Even if you’re homeschooling, this book is a great resource.  The book addresses issues like academic readiness, social issues, and how much is too much when it comes to praising your child.  It’s an all-encompassing parent guide.  I really, really liked the section on communicating with your child.  Teachers are trained on giving specific, honest feedback.  Parents often receive no such instruction. It’s tempting to say, “Good job!” but your child may have no idea how to view indicators of good work.   I also liked the suggestions about giving your child a jump-start to school in fun, natural ways.  Some parents do this automatically, some don’t know where to start.   These days we have more and more grandparents who are raising their grandchildren, and this book would be such a lifesaver for those who are a little overwhelmed with starting anew.  Good parenting doesn’t happen by accident.  It’s hard work, and parents must look to excellent role models and good resources like this one to ensure success for what matters most—our kids.