• Studies have shown that parental involvement is the single most important factor in a child’s academic success. Students whose parents are involved have better grades, improved test scores, and increased motivation. So, if possible, both parents should attend PTSA meetings, teacher conferences, after-school events, etc. and both should oversee their education process.
• At the beginning of school, email each of your children’s teachers giving them your contact information. Request that they contact you if any situation should arise during the year that warrants your attention. Let teachers know that they have your support. Children generally do better in school when their parents encourage respect for the teacher’s authority and competence and when children see their parents and teachers as a united team working towards the same goals.
• Let your children know that in your home academics take priority over any other school-related activities. Your children’s values take shape early on as to what is important. They have a keen eye for what you do and a sharp ear for what you say. With time, your children will absorb your views about school and your standards regarding education. Let them know it is a privilege earned to be allowed to participate in a club or athletic team. I have known several parents who have walked onto the playing field and removed their child from practice when he/she did not make school work a priority. In each case, the student received a definitive message that mom and dad meant business, and, subsequently, the student worked harder towards academics and thus grades improved.
• Establish a study area for each of your children which are considered to be their very own. In this study area, have everything the student will need for academics; i.e., stapler, tape, paper, flashcards, pencils, pens, etc. I know it is redundant, but each child in the family would benefit by having their own set of supplies. This will help maintain harmony in your home, prove to be an efficient means of home study for everyone, and give all children ownership of their academics. Also, establish the best study time for each child, which will most likely be different for each.
• Instead of telling your children that when their homework is complete they can watch TV, use the computer, go outside to play, etc., give them a specific time limit each day in which they can do these things. Otherwise, they may rush through their homework and/or test preparation and do a poor job.
• Remember, it is not the actual letter grade that is most important. It is the level of effort and energy the student puts forth. Teaching your children to be responsible and accountable for their academics is most important. If your child does everything you observed possible to study and prepare for a test and the grade is a “C”, applaud their effort and remain positive. This is an opportunity for you to teach a life lesson about the character which they will carry into later years.
Hopefully, by putting into practice these suggestions, each of your children will have an enjoyable and productive school year. Questions and comments may be directed to carol@ totallearningconcepts.com.
Carol Wood is the Founder & CEO of Total Learning Concepts, Inc. Visit www. totallearningconcepts.com for information about their tutorial and test preparation services. For more information about Total Learning Concepts, Inc., please call 770-381-5958 or visit their website at http://totallearningconcepts.com
