October Check-In: How to Assess Your Kids' Progress in School

Ο YES    Ο NO   Does she spend time with friends outside of school?

Ο YES    Ο NO   Are you confident that your child is not being bullied or that he doesn't bully other children? (Bullying can be very difficult to see as an adult. It can physical or verbal; in person, online, or by cell phone.)

If you answered NO to any of these questions, your child needs support to learn strategies that will improve her social life. The right strategies will vary depending upon your child's personality and needs. Even if your child is a bully, she still needs your help, rather than punishment. If she is a target of bullying, you may need to intervene directly. Ask your child about her social life. Also, speak to your child's teacher and to the school counselor. If necessary, seek private counseling to help you and your child.

Daily Routine

Ο YES    Ο NO   Does your child manage his daily routine -- dressing, eating, bathing, activities, bedtime -- with no more than age-appropriate assistance?

Ο YES    Ο NO   Does your child enjoy her extracurricular activities?

Ο YES    Ο NO   Is she able to balance school with additional activities?

If you answered NO to any of these questions, it is time to assess your child's routine and schedule. Perhaps he needs a more or less structured routine. The adults must create the structure and then reinforce it consistently. If you are concerned that your child is lagging behind others in the activities of daily living, consult your pediatrician to determine whether an evaluation is recommended. Maybe your child has too many extracurricular activities, which has caused him to become overwhelmed. You have time before the second semester or next sports season begins to reassess and adjust accordingly.

Dr. Susan Bartell is a nationally recognized child psychologist, speaker, and award-winning author. Her latest book is "The Top 50 Questions Kids Ask." You can learn more about Dr. Bartell at www.drsusanbartell.com.