School is back in session, but at Abbott Elementary, it’s the parents who are getting the lessons. Principal Coleman, Janine, Barbara, Melissa, Jacob, Gregory, and even Mr. Johnson have some valuable insights into raising kids. Get ready to take notes!
ABC/Christopher Willard
#1. Always stay caffeinated.
Follow Janine, Gregory, and the other teacher’s lead and always have a coffee cup on hand.
#2. Nap when you can.
Put on a pair of sunglasses and snooze like Ava whenever possible.
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#3. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Janine is “not on social media like that,” so she goes to Ava for help making a TikTok. Despite a few, ahem, interesting suggestions (like twerking), her video goes viral. See? It’s worth asking.
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#4. Dancing makes everything more fun.
From teaching math lessons to doing the dishes, dancing helps kids stay focused and makes learning fun. Just ask Barbara!
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#5. Vision boards are always a good idea.
Whether you’re trying to catch students desking or you are trying to master potty training with your little one, creating a vision board can’t hurt!
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#6. Always be prepared.
Ava is a “doomsday prepper,” so she is ready for even minor emergencies, like Janine causing a power outtage. Moms, you never know when those flashlights — or extra snacks — will come in handy!
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#7. Kids don’t think you’re cool: embrace it.
The best way to get a kid to stop doing something is to attempt it yourself, just like how Jacob stopped the Desking trend after doing it (tiny orange shorts optional).
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#8. Some kids are born picky eaters.
Gregory says he only has “four or five things that I actually like, and I just stick to those.” (Pizza is not one of them.) But hey, it’s not his fault! He was just born that way — much like your picky eaters.
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#9. Never give up.
As a parent, dealing with rolled eyes, groans, and never-ending complaints is part of the job (sometimes before you’ve even had coffee!). Channel your inner Janine and never give up, no matter how unenthusiastic your kids are.
#10. Every day is a new day.
Parenting can be exhausting (hello sleepless nights and cranky kids!). But Mr. Johnson and the teachers at Abbott Elementary show up each day with a smile and a fresh start, which is such an inspiration. We can do this!
