6 Ways Parents Can Be More Active in Student Learning
Your child may be the one spending their days sitting in a classroom listening to their teachers, but there are plenty of ways you can be more involved in their education and support their success. Helping your child build a strong academic foundation and life-long skills is a team effort. They are constantly learning from the world around them and the people in their lives.
- Take an interest in what they are learning.
Fractions or the lifecycle of a frog may not be something you’re passionate about but get excited for your child. Ask about what they are learning in different classes and take the time to listen. Help connect concepts to the real world and things that impact your child’s life. This can support them in seeing the short- and long-term importance of these skills. Encourage your child to further their learning by conducting experiments together at home, watching videos or documentaries, trying a new hobby, or doing other activities that relate to what they’re studying.
- Ask them to teach you.
Turn the tables and have your child be the teacher. This is a great way for them to practice and see how well they understand the information. If they can show you how to correctly solve a problem using the quadratic formula, then they can probably do it themselves as well. If there is something they are unsure about, research it together and find the answer. Asking questions can also encourage your child to think critically and dig deeper into the topic.
- Model your own commitment to learning.
Let your child see you preparing for a presentation at work, researching information for a client, or learning more about a topic that interests you. Remind them that even as an adult, you don’t always have all of the answers or know how to do everything. There is always more to learn. Share with them ways that you have overcome obstacles and how professional development has helped you advance in your career and personal life.
- Stay connected with the school.
Participate in parent-teacher conferences, read the newsletters and emails your child’s teacher sends home, and attend school events. Show your child that their education and what is happening in their world is important to you. Regular communication with their teacher can also help you to be more aware of concerns, celebrate achievements, and work together to support your child’s success.
- Be encouraging.
Remember that practice makes progress. Reduce the pressure to be “perfect” and praise your child for their efforts and for continuing to improve. They might not get everything right the first time, but as long as they’re learning from their mistakes, they’re moving in the right direction. Maintain realistic expectations and create an environment where your child has the support, resources, time, and space to do their homework and study.
- Partner with a tutor.
Don’t feel like you (or your child) have do everything on your own. If there are topics your child is struggling with and concepts you’re having difficulty explaining, working with a tutor can be beneficial. They can incorporate a variety of strategies and approaches to teach things in a way that makes sense to your child and reinforces what they are learning in school. It’s a great way to bridge gaps, build confidence, and equip your child with tools they can use for the rest of their lives. Show that you care by getting them the help they need and empowering them in their education.
Crafting Scholars creates customized learning plans for each student aligned with their needs, goals, and learning style. Contact us today for more information about available services and to reserve your child’s spot.
Originally published at https://craftingscholars.com on April 10, 2024.
