In exactly one week, Lawrence County students will head back to the classrooms. But so will their parents, for all intents and purposes.

Summer is winding down and families across the region are rounding up school supplies, working on getting those new outfits and adjusting sleep schedules back to the normal routine.

As always, children often have mixed emotions on hitting the books again, but most ultimately embrace the chance to return to see friends and teachers with whom they have built relationships.

Of course, there will be an adjustment period for the children as they refocus on their education.

But it is also a time for parents to adjust as well and make that same level of commitment that they are asking of their children.

Ask any educator and they will tell you the same thing: Engaged and involved parents or familial support systems are vital to the success of children.

And parents can have a summer hangover as well.

Getting involved doesn’t mean doing your child’s homework or taking part in every activity. It simply means that it is important to pay attention, take a role in the study process, ask questions and provide the support and encouragement that is needed for any child to be successful.

Today’s youth face many challenges and pressures in the classroom, on the playgrounds and in the community. The one place they shouldn’t feel those is at home.

Parents have the important role of coach and leader. While the students may be asked to hit the books next week, parents should start thinking about the lessons they can provide as well.