The transition from summer to back  to-school can be easy. You should be relaxed, ready and even excited. Any apprehension or fear can be eliminated with good preparation.

As a martial arts student, you would practice your skills again and again to become proficient; preparing for academic school is no different. Your goal is to stay balanced and engage your mind in activities that are stimulating, which will make you smarter, and prepare you for learning. After all, your brain is like a muscle and it becomes weak if it isn’t used.

Strive for Black Belt excellence because a Black Belt’s goal is to have the ability to anticipate situations before they occur and be prepared for those challenges. Returning to school is your newest goal, so you must be ready for any academic challenges. You’ll experience less stress and earn better grades.

Try These Five Tips for a Great School Year

1.  Read continually. Watch less TV and read more. Find a good book. It’s easy to be bored, if you are not reading an engaging and interesting book. Take the time to choose the correct book; it will make a world of difference. Read about a subject or topic that will help you learn.

2.  Practice math. Keep your mind active and ask your parents to quiz you, regularly. Make it fun.

3.  Test yourself or ask your parents to test you. Determine if your mind is just as sharp as it was before summer. Compete with your parents; it’s healthy competition and a great family activity.

4.  Study and review the subjects you will be learning during the new school year. Contact one or more of your teachers or the school to help give you a head start.