10 Ways For Parents To Help Teachers Help Their Children Learn

10 Ways For Parents To Help Teachers Help Their Children Learn

1. Create a smooth take-off each day.

Give your child a hug before they leave the house and you head to work. Look them in the eye, and tell them how proud you are of them. Your child's self-confidence and security will help them do well both in school and in life. A positive, happy start is the best foundation for the day at school.

2. Prepare for a happy landing at the end of the day.

Create a predictable ritual such as 10–20 minutes listening to your child talk about their day over an afterschool snack - before you check phone messages, read the mail, or begin dinner. That is truly quality time when your children know you are fully present to listen and your attention is focused on them and they can count on you every day after school.

3. Fill your child's lunchbox with healthy snacks and lunches.

Have dinner as a family, preferably around the table, at a reasonable hour. In the morning provide a healthy breakfast with whole grains, protein and fruit. A well-balanced diet maximises your child's learning potential and helps them stay alert throughout the school day.

4. Include calm, peaceful times in your children's afternoons and evenings.

Maintain a schedule of regular bedtimes that allows them to go to school rested, and if they are sick, have a system in place so they are able to stay home. Children need plenty of sleep for healthy physical and mental development and success at school.

5. Remember it's your children's homework, not yours.

Create a specific homework space that's clutter-free and quiet. Encourage editing and double-checking work, but allow your kids to make mistakes, as it's the only way teachers can gauge if they understand the material. It's also how children learn responsibility for the quality of their work.

6. Fill your child's life with a love for learning by showing them your own curiosity, respecting their questions, and encouraging their efforts.

7. Fill your home with books to read, books simply to look at, and books that provide answers to life's many questions.

The public or school library is an excellent resource and can become a habit from an early age.

8. Be a partner with your child's teacher.

When you need to speak to the teacher in reference to a specific issue with your child, do it privately, not in front of your child. Never criticise your child's teacher or the school in front of your child. Always keep adult disagreements among the adults concerned.

9. Set up a system where routine items are easily located—such as backpacks, shoes, signed notices.

Create a central calendar for upcoming events to make sure everyone is prepared. Boys, in particular, can benefit from learning how to organise themselves.

10. Become involved in school activities.

This could be helping with reading, being on a committee, helping with a Friends of Holy Cross Event, going to meetings, and providing transport. Teachers appreciate the practical support of parents – and children whose parents are involved do better at school.

Adapted from an article by Mimi Doe, Principals’ Digest, Vol. 14 No. 6

Mr P. Collins

Vice Principal

6 August 2014