Vibrant Education
by Wendy Daniel, ΘΒ, Georgia State University; Linda Eady, ΚΜ , Georgia Southern University; Jennifer McDaniel, ΚΥ, North Georgia College and State University; Joan Voight, ΓΡ, University of West Georgia
Parents who take an active interest in their children’s school and school work are among the biggest contributors to their children’s success in school. Following are a few tips that may be helpful in making the most of your children’s education.
At Home:
1. Sleep: School-age children need between eight and 10 hours of sleep per day as their
brains are literally growing each day.
2. Routines: Children of all ages crave a routine where they know what to expect and what
is expected of them. This alleviates arguments and stress for both adults and children.
3. Schedules: Limit the number of extracurricular activities to ensure time for family,
school work and “down-time.” At first, children may feel bored during unscheduled
time. Encourage them to try new activities that can lead to new hobbies.
4. Environment: Students need a quiet, well-lit area for homework, stocked with needed
supplies. This organized space of their own often initiates responsibility and confidence.
5. Reading: The importance of reading to and with your children should go without saying.
It is also important to model reading. Guide children toward age-appropriate, enjoyable
material.
In the Classroom:
1. Communication: Children need to know that the parent and teacher are “on the same
page” and support each other. It is also important that parents communicate early on
about any home situation/life events that may affect school behavior and performance.
2. Coping Skills: Identify and embrace your child’s strengths and weaknesses. Work closely
with teachers to identify coping skills to help each child fulfill his or her potential.
3. Be prepared: This may seem like a given, but students need to come to class prepared.
Make sure they have everything they need each day. This includes homework assignments,
materials, notes to teachers, and even basics like paper and pencils.
4. Assistance and encouragement: The amount of assistance and encouragement a child
needs to succeed in school will vary over time and should be age-appropriate. As children
mature, the need for assistance decreases and parents should step back and let them find
their own successes.
5. Expectations: Children are known to “rise to the occasion.” Set academic expectations
high enough to encourage growth and initiative, yet realistic enough to build confidence
and esteem.
|