During my 50+ years of writing and teaching about adult becoming the parents they want to be, I have found that adults always remember things about their schooling, no matter how long ago it occurred. Sometimes the memories are happy ones—sometimes not—but always able to be remembered.

Think about when you were in school. Think about a specific grade in elementary, middle, or high school.

Why did you pick that grade? Was it a great year or a not-so-great year? Why?

Looking back, what made it great or what would have made it better? In thinking about this, be sure you do so using your adult wisdom, rather than simply recalling what you thought or felt in your youth.

Now, with your adult understanding, ask yourself, “Is there anything about that year that is similar to what my child is experiencing now in school? How can I help my child have a great year like I did, or how avoid any of the problems I had in school?”