Have you thought: How can I help my child have a good school year? What can I do to get him motivated?

You can find answers to some of your back-to-school questions at a parenting workshop. School psychologist Byron Douglas will be the guest speaker for the workshop titled, "Back to school lessons for children, teens, and parents."

The workshop is scheduled for Sept. 14, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Strong Tower Ministry, 134 Spencer Lane in Ypsilanti. Pizza will be served from 5:30-6 p.m. The fee is $5, payable at the door on the evening of the event.

This event is for all ages, school-aged children through adults. The speaker will provide information for children and teens that will aid them in a successful school year. Adults will receive information on how to encourage success in their child.

Backpacks and school supplies will be raffled to attendees; children’s books will be available for purchase. Reserve your spot by e-mailing restoration.inc@live.com or by calling 734-657-8454.

Did you know that offering constant encouragement can help children learn effectively? When we show interest in what children are learning, this helps to motivate them. Tips given at www.newsforparents.org say that we should encourage children to think.

As parents we sometimes tire of hearing a young child ask, “why?” or “what is that for?” However, we encourage children to think when we encourage them to ask questions about the world around them. Almost anything can be used as a learning experience. A TV show or a movie can stimulate a family discussion.

Children can start down the path to success when we encourage them to listen. This may be a challenge, but it can be done. How many times have we said, you are not listening or I need you to listen. If this happens in school, children may be missing out on important information.

The experts at newsforparents.org suggest that “children ask questions to clarify understanding. After a discussion, ask children questions about the topic to reinforce learning.” Part of listening includes teaching them to focus on the main ideas presented.

Another bit of advice says that we should teach children to follow directions by giving them one direction at a time to avoid confusion. When new skills are taught it is best to demonstrate each step and have children participate until they can perform the task by themselves.

There are many tools available to help a child have a successful school year. Participating in a parenting workshop is one way to obtain hands-on information. It provides an opportunity to share information as well as walk away with information. You never know who you might help without even trying.

Angela Verges is a writer and mother of two. She can be reached at awritersdream41@yahoo.com.