It may still feel like summer outside, but back-to-school season has arrived. Here are a few things to think about as we turn our attention to September.
- Weekly meetings: These are a perfect time for you to sit down with your host parents and review the weekly schedule, the children’s behavior, and other issues. APIA strongly encourages these meetings. If they’re not happening at your house, let me know and I’ll speak with your host parents.
- Schedule: September is almost here. What does that mean for you? Now is the perfect time to review your work schedule and family agreements and think about how life might change this autumn. Bring up questions you have about these changes in your weekly meetings.
- School: Can you answer all of these questions? If not, ask your host parents, so you will know what to do.
- What are the children’s school and activity schedules (including school holidays, teacher work days)
- How does school drop-off and pick-up work? Have you been added to the list of people allowed to pick up the kids from school>
- What do you do if a child is staying home sick, is late to school, or is dismissed early?
- How do you know if school has been cancelled or delayed for bad weather?
- What should you pack for the children’s lunches?
- What is the after-school routine (do they have free time before starting homework, what to give for snack, any chores, where do they put their backpacks & lunchboxes)?
- How should you communicate with your host parents about what’s going on at school?
- Are there any other changes in routines, bedtimes, and meals?
- Technology: Smart phones are great tools for staying in touch with your host family, finding directions, scheduling playdates, keeping track of your schedule, and taking pictures of your host kids to share with their parents. However, remember that you should never use your phone for anything else during work hours. Don’t do it. For more technology tips, read this blog post.