8 School Days when Kids Can Use an Extra Pick-me-up

8 school days when your kid needs an extra pick-me-up

It's still hard to believe, but this year I have not one, but two elementary school students! BooBoo will be entering kindergarten (sniff, sniff) while Boy Wonder becomes a big 5th grader. My, how time flies.

It's always been important to me that my kids know just how much I think about them during the school day. As kids progress in their elementary careers and the behavioral and academic expectations get higher, they sometimes need a little extra encouragement to keep going.

Showing our kids just how much we care is a quick and easy thing to do, especially with the help of Ziploc bags. While every child is different, one thing remains the same: every kid could use an extra pick me up on these 8 particular school days.

First day of school: Going back to school into a new classroom with new faces can be overwhelming. Imagine your child's smile when they open their new pencil box to find a positive note from you that says something like, "This is going to be a great year!" or "Good luck in third grade!" Consider your note a reassuring virtual hug.

A big test: Your kid is nervous about today's math test, so leave them an encouraging note in their lunchbox that says, "Good luck today!" or "Just try your best, Honey" as a reminder that they are in your thoughts.

Related: The 10 worst things about going back to school

Oral report day: Standing up in front of the class to give a speech can be scary, especially for a shy child. You may not be there to hold your kid's hand, but you can let him or her know you're there in spirit. Slip a silly note in his/her folder to break the tension that says something funny like, "Psst! Just picture everyone in their underwear!"

A Monday: Mondays are hard on everyone, especially kids. Offer notes of encouragement like, "Let's make Monday a fun-day!" and include an unexpected treat like fun stickers or erasers.

School program: School programs can be as scary as they are exciting for kids. Try putting a little note in the pocket of their costume that reads, "You're going to be great!" to boost their confidence.

Standardized state testing: Sadly our schools often put a lot of pressure on our kids to perform well on state tests. Help ease your child's anxiety with a simple, "You'll do great!" with a huge smiley face.

Related: 8 things you need to know to raise a good reader

The day after: Maybe last night's homework assignment ended in tears or your kid had a rough day at school yesterday - whatever the cause of your child's stress, a note from mom or dad can be just the pickup they need to make today a better day. Simple phrases like, "We're proud of you!" or "Today is a new day!" serve as great reminders that brighter days are ahead.

Just because: Of course, you don't need a reason to spread a little cheer into your child's school day! A simple "I love you!" or "Keep smiling!" is enough to bring a smile onto your child's face.

With the start of a new school year, pay close attention to those important days on your child's academic calendar. Your thoughts and special surprises go a long way in showing your child just how much you care even when you can't be there. --By Lori Garcia