ABCs of school success By Pam Molnar A successful school year is as easy as learning your ABCs. Check out these simple tips for a happy and healthy school year. Accept new challenges Push your child to go outside of his comfort zone. Encourage him to try activities, learn new sports and make new friends. Breakfast If your child does not have time for a sit-down breakfast, provide onthe-go breakfast foods. Chores Give your child a few jobs that you expect done each day before or after school such as making her bed or feeding the dog. Downtime Be sure to add free time to their schedule. These are the times your child can relax on the couch or have a last minute pickup game with friends. Exercise Balance your child's sedentary school day with plenty of exercise outside after school. Friends Encourage your child to invite friends over so you can get to know them. Grab and go snacks Your child will be hungry after school. Be prepared with pre-bagged healthy snacks like veggies and dip or hummus and crackers. Illness Stock your child's backpack or desk with tissues and hand sanitizer. Remind him to wash his hands and to sneeze into his arm. Join Encourage your child to join activities at school. It gives them a sense of belonging. Keep trying Encourage your child to pick himself back up and try again. Disappointment builds character and gives him the tools to succeed. Limitations It's okay to say no to invitations and extra practice when you see your child is overwhelmed. Be Mindful of others' feelings Think before you say it and apologize if it comes out wrong. Nutrition Plan healthy meals ahead of time. Get organized Save yourself some sanity in the mornings by organizing things the night before. Be a good example While words are important, your actions mean much more. Quality time Try to plan dinners together or have a family game night to stay connected. Continued on page 27 Advertorial 23 | Thursday, August 27, 2015 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com DANCE Professional Curric ulum for Ac robatic Danc e ROYAL ACADEMY OF "WHERE DANCERS' DREAMS Now COME 7,000 sq. ft. TRUE" LIVE TO DANCE ACADEMY OFFERS CLASSES TO RECREATIONAL & COMPETITIVE STUDENTS IN Jazz Tap RAD Ballet Hip Hop Acro Lyrical Little Wiggles Creative Starz Break-dancing Musical Theatre Boyz Only Hip Hop DIAMOND PLATINUM Classes offered for ages 18 months - adult "Boys dance half price their first year" august 27th 5pm-8pm, august 29th 10am-2pm and September 1st & 2nd 10am-2pm & 5pm-8pm RegiStRation dateS: 2210 Speers Road, Unit 1-3 (between 3rd line & Bronte Rd.) (905) 827-7771 www.livetodanceacademy.ca