School Services
At Children's Medical CenterHelping Your Child Succeed in School
School and parents play a major role in the development of children. Working together, they support children's ability to believe in themselves and fulfill their purpose in life.
Teachers have a clearly defined role in this process-they encourage children to learn and try new things. Parents also need to be actively involved in their children's education. Listed here are some tips that may help you as a parent in this important role.
- Know your child's teacher(s).
Find out the best time and way to reach your child's teacher(s). Record their phone numbers, e-mail addresses and times they are available. This will make it easier when you have questions or problems. - Establish a study area in your home.
Make sure this space has paper, pencils, pens, erasers, scissors, tape, folders, a dictionary and other materials your child uses daily at school. Having a specific place to study can make it easier for your child to concentrate on schoolwork. - Set up a regular time for your child to do homework.
This should be at a time that fits your family's schedule. On days with no homework, play a game, read a book, go for a walk or do something that you and your child enjoy doing together. - Share homework time with your child.
Stay in the room or nearby and do something like read a book, your own homework, pay bills or work on a hobby. - Check each day's homework assignments.
Do this before and after homework time. Praise your child for daily accomplishments. - Teach your child to pack a school bag.
After homework is done, your child should learn to put all books, assignments, permission slips and other materials needed for the next day in a backpack. - Maintain open communication with teachers on a regular basis.
The frequency of communication depends on your child's performance. Once a month is the minimum recommended for parent/teacher contact. The more your child struggles to succeed, the more you need to communicate with teachers. You may find it helpful to talk with the teacher(s) weekly until your child improves. - Recognize your child's accomplishments in challenging assignments.
Tell your child that you believe in him/her and know that he/she will keep trying to improve even when something is difficult. Ask what you can do to help. - Attend your child's school activities.
If you can't be there, let your child know you are thinking about him or her. A simple handwritten note, a flower, a small goodie, or a phone call are a few ways to let your child know you are there in spirit.