Tips for parents to help children have the best school year possible

With each new school year comes a new set of challenges and adjustments for students, teachers, and parents.  There are a number of things that parents can do to encourage children to put their best foot forward and get the most out of the school year. 

Here are a few helpful tips about how parents can help their children achieve success both inside and outside of the classroom.  By taking advantage of these tips, parents can build a strong foundation for their children and help them to understand why getting a good education is so important.

At School
▪ It is important for parents to build relationships with teachers and other school personnel who are working with their children and make sure they stay informed about what is happening at school.

▪ Understanding a child’s behavior and attitude at school goes a long way in helping track a child’s progress during the school year.  When asking about a child’s academic performance, be sure to ask the teacher about behavior and attitude, too.   

▪ Form a partnership with the child’s teacher to enhance student achievement.  It is important to have teacher/parent cooperation and support on an everyday basis.

▪ Frequent communication with a child’s teacher makes it easier for parents and teachers to address a problem should one arise. 

▪ When speaking with the child’s teacher, make sure to ask the most important questions first.

▪ Each semester has a period of adjustment.  Knowing a child’s strengths and weaknesses in the classroom helps to better understand his or her progress.  Fall is a great time to learn more about what might have an influence on a child’s academic progress.  In the spring, review the child’s progress and think toward the future about what can be done to provide summer enrichment opportunities for the child. 

At Home
▪ Make an active effort to pass on a feeling of excitement and enthusiasm for learning.

▪ On a daily basis, parents should ask their children about what they learned at school.  Be specific with the questions and leave them open-ended.  Avoid yes or no questions.  Use what the children share to generate a conversation that is positive about school and their schoolwork.  

▪ Lay the groundwork for habits that encourage learning at home like providing a place to study, setting aside specific time for reading and homework, and cutting out unnecessary distractions.

▪ Give priority to a child’s academic interests and value other endeavors such as extracurricular activities and hobbies.

▪ Instill a strong work ethic in the child and show pride in his or her academic growth and accomplishments.  Praise the child for efforts, not just results. 

▪ As a family, be sure that children know that learning is held in high regard.  Set standards and have high academic expectations.  Help children understand why education is important to their future. 

Sources: N.C. Department of Public Instruction and N.C. School Boards Association