6 Ways You Can Help You Child Succeed In School

Whether you were a good student, or one that needed… a little extra attention, let’s face it, school was challenging. The early mornings, the late nights, the pages and pages of homework. It can be a daunting task, but it’s one that is foundational to lives of every graduate. Many studies show that it is school that sets the foundation for success in a person’s life. Support from parents is key in ensuring success in a child’s academic career. It’s important to walk through your child’s school just as they do, giving them the support and attention needed to succeed. Overwhelmed yet? Don’t be, it’s easier than you think. With help from “Education Corner” and “Kids Health,” We’ve put together a couple of tips you can use to in supporting your child as they embark on their academic careers.

1.) Get Involved With Your Child’s School

Don’t be afraid to “go back to school.” Children do better in school when their parents are involved in their academic lives. Attending back-to-school-nights and getting involved in the school’s PTA is a great way to do this. This shows your child that you are just as invested in their learning as they are. No longer are you sending them away to have someone else take care of them, but rather, you are a partner with the school. Also, be sure to attend parent teacher conferences as often as possible. These meetings are set up to help give you insights into your child’s life within the classroom. Keep in mind that parents can also request meetings with teachers, principals, or other staff through the year. There are many ways for you to get involved.

2.) Put Your Child in the Driver’s Seat

Now that you are involved with the school it’s time to your child do the same. Allow your child to take ownership of their education. Depending on the age this may look different but be constantly looking for ways in which your child can take responsibility in their learning. When it comes to educations, most kids feel controlled. Controlled by their teachers, their peers, but biggest of all, their parents. Being active in their education isn’t a bad thing but remember this is their education and not yours. Don’t be afraid to step back and allow them to figure things out. It’s important to allow children to have control of their own learning experience.

3.) Share Your Enthusiasm for Learning

Enthusiasm is contagious. If you are excited about learning chances are your child will be to. Whether its reading, studying new topics, or simply trying something new, allow your child to see that learning is an exciting journey of discovery.

4.) Focus on your Childs Interest

How many of you hated math growing up? That’s probably because it didn’t interest you. When learning engages with a child’s interest it becomes fun. Now we’re not saying they shouldn’t do subjects they don’t find interesting. If that was the case algebra would cease to exist. What we are saying, is if you want your child to become a better learner, encourage them in the subjects they do finding fascinating. If they love science, try doing homemade science experiments at home and watch tv shows revolving around how things are made.

5.) Focus on Your Childs Learning Rather Than Performance.

Instead of focusing too much on how your child did on a test, instead ask what they learned. This shows your child that it isn’t the grade that matters but rather the learning experience. We know grades are important, but we believe if you focus on the learning experience the grades will follow in line.

6.) Recognize and Celebrate Their Achievements.

School is hard, and its long. It’s easy for a child to be burnt out from learning. Therefore, look for any opportunity to celebrate the learning of your child. This is especially important for children just starting school. Celebrating their achievements keeps them motivated as they continue in their education. We’re not suggesting you praise mediocracy, but you take the time and recognize when they do something truly great. Learning is a team effort, celebrating your child’s victories shows that you are on their team.

Don’t just be a bystander in you child’s education. Continue to push them and be an active part in their learning experience. When your child succeeds in school, the whole family succeeds. For more tips on being involved in your child’s education follow the links to Education Corner and Kids Health.

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