Teachers will tell you one of the largest influences on student achievement is parental involvement.
Like a soldier going into battle, a student approaches learning with more tenacity if he knows he has someone he can trust to back him up, someone who will help when the times get tough. More to the heart of the matter, a student needs someone who cares, who believes in him, and who cheers every success.
Think about it.
Would you have striven for that A in math class if your mom didn't care? Would you have gone out for track if your dad wasn't a runner too? Would you have pushed yourself to graduate if no one came to the commencement ceremony? It's the foundation we stand on that makes us strong, as individuals and as students.
In honor of Father's Day, here are some ways you as a parent can help actively help improve student performance:
1. Listen Carefully
Students often have a hard time asking questions in class or directly to teachers. The most valuable tool you can offer your student is a caring ear. Sometimes students just need someone to listen as they vent frustration; other times they need help with homework. Listen first to understand the situation before rushing to judgment or giving misguided advice.
2. Support Constantly
Are you really around to offer help? Set aside time each day to help your student with homework. Go beyond that difficult fraction question or buying chemistry lab glasses and really dig into what your student is learning. Ask questions; know what your child is learning. Education isn't about the right answer, but sharing ideas with each other.
3. Love Continuously
Don't make your student's value dependent on performance. This only grows resentment, anger, and a fear of mistakes (a necessary occurrence for true learning). Conditional love also cheapens your relationship with your student, while lowering his student's self-esteem. Give your student love no matter the result-tough love when needed, or joyful love when celebrating.
4. Learn Daily
Put yourself in your student's shoes by continuously learning. Practice what you preach by being a good role model student. Your student will realize you're not just a do-what-I-say-but-not-as-I-do person. Application of your "been there, done that" wisdom will also help your student know how to approach various learning situations in the future.
5. Encourage Generously
Don't be stingy. If your student achieves something, praise him. Give positive feedback both privately and in front of a group. This helps your student realize how proud you really are! Offer positive reinforcement. By giving your student something to strive for, you help build self-motivation (along with teaching your student to encourage others as well).
Most parents become involved in a child's learning if there is a problem or an issue at school. However, parents should be involved continuously through both good times and bad if they are truly committed to helping their student achieve a successful education.
What do you do as a parent to involve yourself in your student's learning?