As parents, we want to do everything we can to support our kids in school. Here are some simple ways you can ensure your children’s success this school year.
First of all, keep margin in your child’s life. It’s easy to want our kids to do all the things. Sports, extra sports, church activities, scouts, musical endeavors, etc. These are all good things, but our kids also need down time. They need time to be kids. Play outside with siblings or neighbors, read a book, build a fort, play a board game, etc. Over-scheduling our children’s days can lead to anxiety and exhaustion. If they are on a traditional school schedule, they have spent seven hours being scheduled and following directions. Allowing them to come home and make their own choices about how to spend their time is something they will unknowingly appreciate.
Another way to support your child is to go over their schoolwork with them. Sit down and pull the work out of the folder and talk about what you see. Praise their accomplishments, show interest in what they’re learning, and use this time to evaluate what they may need extra support with at home.
As a former classroom teacher, I would always be surprised when report cards went home and parents were confused about a grade. The work that comes home daily (or weekly) should speak for itself, so pay attention to the successes and struggles you notice. This is also bonding time. Showing interest in your child’s school work is a small way to show you deeply care about them.
Finally, you can probably guess my final suggestion for supporting your child in school; reading with them! No matter your child’s age, do not stop reading with them. Again, this is bonding time while supporting their academic progress. Oftentimes, parents stop reading with their child once their child can read independently. I would encourage you to continue to read with your child even after they become a proficient reader. This is when you can see how they interpret context and voice which helps you see even more of your child’s personality.
Erin Pate is a former elementary school teacher and mom to two littles who has a passion for sharing the love of reading. Follow her on Instagram @booksandsmiles for book recommendations, reading tips and learning ideas for the littles in your life.
