Make your child’s education a priority

Last week I began a discussion of how parental involvement can influence a child’s interest and performance in school. Today, I would like to talk about ways that parents can create a healthy environment for a successful school year.

• The first day of school is often a day of stress. If the child is entering school for the first time separation anxiety may require extra time on the part of the parent to make the transition smoother. Talk to the child in a relaxed manner about the importance of the day, then send your child to school properly dressed, well-rested, and feeling well physically.

• Let your child know that you expect school to be among the highest priorities and that you stand behind them and support all their efforts to do well in school. Let them know that you hope that they will see their education as a challenge and an opportunity rather than drudgery and something to be avoided and disliked.

• Show a strong interest in your child’s academic studies. Go over homework assignments in a very positive and nurturing manner. Talk about the things that your child is studying and show a true interest in these subjects.

• Extend your commitment to these priorities by having a specific place available for your child to study which is quite and free from distraction. Encourage your child to set aside a definite time for study each day and help them make a commitment to stick to a schedule. Don’t let your child wait until it’s almost time for bed before they start their homework assignments. Don’t complete their assignments for them but be available to help when appropriate.

• Help your child develop good communication skills with their teachers and other school personnel. Become involved in PTA and other volunteer parent organizations at the school. Display enthusiasm for their education and what it provides to them. Let them know that you look forward with excitement to each school year and the adventure and challenges found in education.

• Help your child pursue the most important element of education – the desire to learn for the sake of learning – by continuing educational pursuits yourself. Read worthwhile books and let them serve as a topic for family discussions at mealtime or when taking trips. You may lead a Sunday School class, be a community volunteer, assist as a scout leader or other activities that emphasize your own interest in learning and teaching.

• Send your child to school armed with information for self preservation and safety. Emphasize bus safety, bike safety and traffic markings. Repeat the necessary cautions about not accepting rides from strangers.

• Set the alarm clock in plenty of time to have breakfast and not rush through the pre-school routine. Send your child off to school each morning on a happy note and be ready to listen when you are reunited in the afternoon after school.

Most importantly, examine your own attitude about education. You should view it as one of the cornerstones of your children’s life, an investment in their future, health and happiness.

Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D. Copyright 1999