Every parent wants to see their child succeed in school. The problem is never the desire, but the reality of the situation−many parents don’t know how to help their children and it is from there that the dreaded dinner table arguments over homework ensue.
Now that the holidays are officially over and the start up of school again is just around the corner, here are five tips to help you help your child finish out the school year strong!
- Set a good example. Children often immolate their parents. Let them know from the beginning that good educational habits yield a better future. If children see their parents engaged in continuing education, then they will be more apt to model that positive behavior. Continuing education for parents doesn’t always have to mean pursuing another degree. It can be something as simple as learning a new language, signing-up for an online enrichment course, or simply taking a class to improve job performance.
- Set the bar high and have them go beyond. If you don’t expect little Johnny to do well, then likely he won’t. Set the bar high for your children in their educational endeavors and they will reach that expectation. Push the bar a little higher and watch them go beyond. You are their biggest champion, rally around them as they hit the books and they will succeed in doing more than expected.
- Provide a proper homework environment. Homework cannot be properly done in front of the television, with the dog barking, and the telephone ringing off the hook. A child needs a proper environment to focus on their lesson. Make sure that they have the necessary school supplies, a desk, good lighting, and a noise free environment to do their best.
- Prioritize study time. Children need to know that work always comes first. Everyone needs their down time, but bogging yourself down with video games, fun and play should be a reward for completing study/homework time. You are not only setting the standard for a good student but you are building a solid future work ethic for them as well.
- Make sure children know that school is not necessarily fun but it is their job. As adults, we don’t necessarily have “fun” at work all the time; however, we are expected to work in order to reap the benefits of our labor. The same goes for students. School isn’t always fun, but they are expected to go. School is their job. If they put forth a solid effort, they too will realize that they will reap the benefits of their labor−it’s called a hundred and four days or so of upcoming summer vacation.
