Parents need to stimulate child’s learning

Fall marks the beginning of school for many children. Parents have the opportunity and – in my opinion – the obligation to assist their children in the process of learning and obtaining an education that will prepare them for life.

Not accepting this obligation and challenge is actually a form of neglect.

Parents who fail to take an active role in their children’s education often doom their children to a life of poverty, crime, poor self-esteem, unhappiness and failure. Parents should assist each child in reaching his or her potential.

Parent involvement requires more than simply telling the child to attend school, do homework and cooperate with the teacher. While attendance and completion of assignments are necessary, they, alone, are not sufficient. There has to be nudging, stimulation and a constant reminder of all there is to learn.

What can parents do to make this educational experience the interesting and rewarding investment it was designed to be?

• Parents should instill in their children the desire to learn for the sake of learning. One of the greatest gifts parents can give their children is to instill in them the simple phrase, “I wonder why.”

Curiosity is an inborn characteristic in many living organisms, including human beings. This natural quest can be nurtured into a desire and excitement for discovery. This will open the door for wanting to learn rather than having to do so. Learning to take risks, to perceive less than perfect results as opportunities for further challenger rather than failure, and internalizing the belief that learning is a lifelong process rather than an end result – all can stem from the question, “I wonder why.”

• Praise the child’s efforts rather than focusing on results. This helps children feel successful about academic endeavors.

“I’m glad you have been reading.” “I’m excited about your interest in mathematics.” “I’m proud of your good study habits.” These are effective ways of helping a child feel good about school. They should be offered daily instead of using grades as the basis of your approval.

• Parents can enhance children’s education by helping them apply what they are learning to every day experiences. Apply mathematical skills to the family budget. Use writing skills by sending letters to relatives. Use artistic skills for making Christmas gifts.

• Actively listen to children about their school day, their frustrations and triumphs, their interaction with friends and their likes and dislikes.

• Serve as a positive role model by continuing to learn. Read books instead of watching too many hours of television. Share information about your work or career. Involve your child in a project where both of you learn a new task.

• Become actively involved in y our child’s school by attending PTA meetings, volunteering to help with special projects and praising the efforts of the teachers.

Parents can refocus priorities and place the child’s education at the top of the list.