Parent involvement with children’s education increases the chances for success in school.
Studies show that children whose parents are involved in education are more motivated in the classroom. And motivated children become students with many opportunities for a bright future.
But just how do parents go about walking that fine line between being helpful and over-managing their children’s school work?
Here are some guidelines that have proven helpful for some parents:
- Read with your children every day. You can read school assignments, or books that are just for fun.
- Provide enrichment materials, like children’s books, magazines and educational toys. Be sure to show your own delight in reading.
- Provide quiet, private work spaces where children can study undisturbed and monitored. Insist that no TV is playing within earshot. Try to limit phone calls during homework time as well.
- Keep those workspaces well-stocked with all the supplies needed to complete assignments. This would include pencils, pens, erasers, staplers, paper, a good lamp, and access to support resources.
- Help your children schedule homework into their daily routine of sports, music, family events, and long-term projects. Sometimes the prominent placement of a large calendar can make a big difference.
- Reward good grades with recognition and praise for the effort.
