As the first week of school wraps up for our children, let's remember why they are in school - academics.
Sure, we enjoy high school sports. And it's easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of high school football. The same can be said for volleyball, soccer, golf and cross country. Perhaps your interest is the band or cheerleading.
Most of us have some affiliation with a particular sport. After all, there are many teens taking part in extra-curricular activities.
The important thing to remember, and the reason they can participate in these activities, is the classroom.
As parents and guardians, it's our job to encourage our children to work just as hard on their school work as they do on the field. Honestly, it's much more important that they excel within the four walls of the school building rather than the athletic field.
Remind them to study hard, both the textbook and the playbook.
Have them ask questions of their teacher as they would their coach.
Help them prepare for tests as you would the games.
Instill in them the importance of homework to a test much as you would use practice to a game.
And praise them for their accomplishments, both on the field but especially in the classroom.
We all enjoy reading our child's names in the sports pages, but seeing it included in the honor roll also should give us a special feel.
Education is important. We hope you share that message with your children.
