It's Back 2 School Day. But This Is Not a ReunionSeptember 19, 2014

Memories about school can't be forgotten. Some we rather not remember, always looking ahead. But this is not about us. It's about the students and why we must remind them that school is fun. It's about giving back.

Back 2 School Day is a brainchild of the Smith Family. What they have in mind are the children at a disadvantage, of those who can't afford to study. Many take this for granted, even some feigning interest. If they only know how fortunate they are. We don't need to be serious about this, though. This occasion calls for responsibility, but it can also apply to the start of the term. Students must be comfortable in an academic environment, but there are issues. Remember this is their second home (and don't insist you don't remember this feeling anymore). It can be done in an informal, lighthearted way. No one is pulling your leg.

To celebrate this special event, here are some tips to make a difference in a student's life (and if you're a parent, how this will make you closer to your children and their mates at school):

Dress up like a student. It seems absurd, and there's no doubt about it. But this is what the occasion calls for. Humor is the best way to break the ice. It can make the children engaged in what you're about to do. We can notify the children's teachers in advance, or better yet, go there unannounced. (Nothing like spontaneity.) Don't worry about those quizzical looks.

Come up with a program. You didn't dress up to have fun. You also don't want to cause a distraction, if not annoyance. Get in touch with the teachers and think of something for the students. It can be a game or two. Make sure it's about what is being taught in class. (If it's about the lawn outside the school, then maybe you should think of something else.)

Nothing beats a good book. If you haven't read a book for a while, then this is the time to make up for it. Read it aloud. Children's literature can be a good start. Roald Dahl and his odd sense of humour is a good suggestion. Harry Potter won't fail to captivate young minds. Fairy tale is another option, but don't veer into that part where the movie version of a Hans Christian Andersen story is unfaithful to the original material. Fantasy is the other choice. There are many titles to choose from. (Arthurian romance is an ideal pick, but some kids may remember the Tolkien's characters.)

Prepare for unexpected meetings. You're not the only one who will go to school, dressed up, and have a good time. There are others, and who knows, it can be an old mate you have lost touch years ago. This will be a pleasant surprise, but there might be more ahead (hint: one of your teachers).

It's your turn to tell us your plan for Back 2 School Day. (This is not the time to be embarrassed about it.)

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