The Bene Family
Children: Sam (11), Charlie (9), and Julie (6)
School District: Rockwood School District
Q. What are some healthy habits that you use with your children in regard to school.
A. School is top priority above everything else. This includes sports and extra-curricular activities. Devoted time to studying and reading before a test. Respect for authority. Respecting teachers and administrators. If we get a phone call, there will be a discussion about behavioral expectations. We have a good communicative relationship with staff at our school. Being kind to everyone. You don’t have to be everyone’s friend, but you should be kind and cordial to everyone. Appreciating everyone’s differences; no gossip about kids or teachers at home, or someone who is “different.”
Q. What kind of an outcome do you see with these habits?
A. They are accepting of others. They are aware of kids with disabilities at school and treat them with the same respect as everyone else. They may not like a teacher, but that is no excuse for poor performance in class. I have been told my kids have good leadership skills in the classroom.
Q. What does your general daily routine look like regarding school, before and after school?
A. We are a late start school so the morning routine can be challenging. Sometimes we have too much time since they are early risers. I have my kids read or do some enrichment work in the mornings: spelling practice, reading, physical outdoor exercise.
Charlie and Julie do not have homework yet. Sam is starting Middle School so I know he will be busy! Homework should be completed after school once they have a chance to wind down (watch TV) for 30 minutes and eat a snack. Our evenings are busy with sports practice during the week so homework should be done beforehand.
Q. Do your kids take their lunch or eat at school?
A. My oldest (Sam) takes his lunch every day. My other two bring or buy depending on the menu choices.
Q. What are some healthy routines your family engages in outside of school?
A. Being active all the time! Swimming, riding bikes, hiking, sports activities. My husband engages with sports, and I like to expose them to history, museums, and nature. I want my kids to be well rounded!
Q. What are some foods that your children like?
A. My oldest loves meat, fruits, vegetables, and pizza. Charlie and Julie are developing their tastes. Charlie enjoys chicken sandwiches and Cheerios. Charlie would eat Cheerios for breakfast, lunch, and dinner if I let him. Julie is the hardest when it comes to food. She loves sweets and carbs. They have limited soda, juice, and energy drink intake. A bottle of Prime is considered a treat in our house.
Q. Do you think healthy foods are important in your child’s development?
A. I incorporate a fruit or vegetable with every meal. If they want something sweet, they have to eat something healthy first.
Q. How do you transition from summer being off school to back to school in August?
A. It’s not that hard. They are excited to get back to school in August. The start time doesn’t bother them as they are all early risers to begin with, even in the summer! There is an adjustment the first couple weeks with new teachers, schedules, friends, etc., but they do well with transitioning.
In summary….
Education is top priority. We have our kids take advantage of enrichment classes offered. Our school offers an optional Mythology exam every year. My boys attend study sessions for this and my husband takes them to the library to prepare. Being kind to others and accepting differences. I’m so glad we live in a diverse community where they can appreciate different cultures. Staying active is a top priority. We do not have any gaming systems in our home. Kids could do better with foods, but that comes with time and maturity. I hope they’re open to trying new things as they get older. First couple weeks of the new school can be difficult, but that’s normal for most children.