Children learn best when the significant
adults in their lives – parents, teachers and other
family and community members – work together to encourage
and support them. Schools alone cannot address all of a student’s
developmental needs. The meaningful involvement of parents
is essential, as children learn first and foremost from their
parents. Parents are teachers, learners, supporters and advocates
for their children. . . whether they view themselves in those
roles or not. Children learn how to eat, talk, sit up and
walk long before entering school.
There are many ways parents or other adults can be involved
with children’s education at home, school and in the
community. The following are some simple yet important things
you can do to get involved regardless of whether your child
is entering kindergarten or twelfth-grade.
- Make sure your student gets to school on time and is
well fed and rested.
- Meet with your child’s teacher(s). Make certain
you know how to reach him or her. Let them know you are
available to talk if they have concerns. Answering machines,
e-mail and voice-mail make it easier than ever to stay
connected. Also attend parent-teacher conferences and open
houses.
- Try to minimize absences and appointments during the
day – it’s harder for your child to learn if
he or she is not there for the lessons.
- Take time to discuss and review your student’s
homework. Develop a consistent daily routine that includes
time for studying.
- Praise your child for working hard
and let your child know you are interested in his or her
studies. If you see an area where your child is struggling,
check with the teacher. Ask your child’s teacher
what you can do at home to help.
- Insist on knowing where your student is after hours.
Establish curfews. Get to know your child’s friends
and their families.
- Take an active interest in your student’s after-school
activities. Attend both their academic and extracurricular
endeavors.
- Make sure your actions set positive examples for your
children. Tell your child how important school is. The
attitude you express about education, motivation and success
will be the attitude your child acquires.
- Give positive feedback and show appreciation for teachers
and principals.
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For those parents who have the
time and want to get more involved, schools offer many options.
Each year, every school creates an action plan. Parents are
encouraged to become part of this process to develop academic
improvements at their school. Volunteer to work in your child’s
classroom or school. Join your school’s PTA, PTSA,
advisory group or booster club and participate in its events.
Ask the principal where he or she needs extra help. Become
aware of legislation at the local, state and national level
that affects our schools. Volunteering in these ways will
certainly help your own child do well, and it will benefit
countless other students.
Parents want their child to succeed. Getting involved
in any way at your child’s school will give you a
feeling of great satisfaction and will reassure your child
that you care about his or her education.
Research has consistently shown that family involvement
in a child’s education is a critical and integral
part
of student achievement.
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