Supporting success in school
If school is important to you, it will be important to your child. If your child feels good about his or her schoolwork, the chances for your child to succeed in school increase.
Your involvement in your child's education is also one of the best investments you can make. Research shows that when parents get involved, their children:
- Are better behaved and have more positive attitudes.
- Are more likely to pursue higher education.
- Earn better grades and test scores.
- Graduate from high school at higher rates.
Some parents have the time to become involved in many ways. Others may only have the time for one or two activities. Your involvement might be as simple as asking your children, "What was the most interesting thing you found out today?" or "What did you learn today that you would like to know more about?" By asking something about their day, each and every day, you will be communicating the message that their school life is important to you and that you expect them to learn. If you become involved and stay involved, you will make a big difference.
Homework and study skills
Get concrete ideas about how you can help your children develop good study skills
and be successful with their homework assignments.
Becoming involved in your children's education can be reading with your children regularly, taking time to listen to your children reflect on their day, or encouraging their efforts to learn. It is also important to:
- Attend as many school meetings and activities as possible.
- Attend parent conferences requested by the school.
- Read all newsletters that are sent home from school and feel free to call if you have any questions.
- Talk to other parents about their perceptions of school.
- Support your children's learning by helping them complete their homework.
If you have time, you can also support school in other ways:
- Volunteer at your child's school. The help is always welcome.
- Get involved with your schools' PTA/PTO, Site Council, or School Improvement Team.
- Attend school board meetings to find out about the kinds of issues the schools are facing and who is making the decisions.