*This is a sponsored article. Currently have a child in a local Kumon program.
Back‑to‑school season brings that familiar shift of new routines, fresh supplies, and the hope that this year will be your child’s strongest one yet.
In this MKR Parent Chat, I sat down with Kala Ramesh, longtime instructor and owner of Kumon of Glen Allen Crossridge, to talk about practical habits families can build now and how Kumon supports learners all year long.
Kala has been a Kumon instructor for over 21 years, guiding students in math and reading through confidence‑building, structured, individualized learning. Her insights are packed with simple, actionable strategies families can use immediately.
The #1 Habit for Back‑to‑School Success: Routine
Kala emphasized that routine is everything.
Daily study as little as 5 to 10 minutes a day helps students retain information, stay sharp, and avoid the dreaded summer slide.
“Establishing a routine from the get‑go is really very important… daily study and reading every night, weekends included.”
Families often see big gains when kids build consistency early. I shared that my youngest child has shown stronger retention and confidence after months of steady Kumon practice.
Why Kumon Works: Confidence Through Achievement
Kala explained that confidence and achievement go hand in hand. Kumon’s structured, linear curriculum helps students master fundamentals before moving forward—no gaps, no guessing.
Key elements of the Kumon method include:
- Individualized starting points
- Daily practice at home
- Twice‑weekly center or virtual classes
- Timed achievement tests at the end of each level
- Celebrations and certificates that reinforce progress
Students often remember their first achievement test years later because of how proud they felt.
“That moment stays with them… that’s when we know we’ve reached the child.”
Kumon supports learners seeking remediation, enrichment, or advanced study, including homeschoolers, public/private school students, and children with special learning needs.
Programs & Supports at Kumon of Glen Allen Crossridge
Families in the Staples Mill / Crossridge area benefit from several flexible options:
- In‑center classes twice a week
- Virtual and hybrid lessons for busy families
- Summer reading incentive program - Students read books from Kumon’s recommended list to earn an invitation to Fall Movie Night—a huge hit with kids.
- Annual Awards Ceremony- Held October 15, featuring student speakers, alumni, and recognition for every child.
Kala also partners with local schools, including serving as a Greenwood Elementary PTA sponsor for three years.
A Student Story That Says It All
During a past awards ceremony, one student shared honestly:
“Kumon is hard… but I stuck with it.”
He explained that staying committed helped him become more advanced than his school curriculum, making homework easier and freeing time for soccer and other activities.
That’s the heart of Kumon: discipline now, confidence later.
How Families Can Connect
Families can learn more or schedule an orientation:
- Website: Kumon of GLEN ALLEN - CROSS RIDGE
- Phone: 804‑564‑2017
- Email: Kalaramesh@ikumon.com
Bonus: How Kala’s Family Has Fun
Kala shared that her family loves to travel and they turn every trip into a learning experience. Her kids kept simple travel journals, writing one thing they learned or enjoyed each day.
A small habit, but a powerful memory‑maker.
Listen to the episode below
