Munchkins of all sizes all over the country are going back to school soon. We all want to make sure that they learn and thrive in their academic pursuits. What’s the best way to help them do that? Good Housekeeping went into classrooms around the country and asked teachers – this is what they found.
1. Don’t be a stranger. Don’t be afraid that you’re imposing on your child’s teacher – talk to them early and often. Give your child’s teacher updates on what’s happening at home that might be affecting your child’s classroom performance and keep an eye on your kids work load, and what’s happening int he classroom. Most teachers have email at school - it’s a great way to get in touch!
2. Talk to your kids about what’s going on in school. Homework isn’t the only kind of learning your kids should be doing after school. Teachers encourage parents to ask kids to show them what they’re working on in school. Whether it’s demonstrating long division or reading a book out loud it can boast confidence and help your child process new information.
3. Stay involved, even if you don’t know the material. You don’t have to be an expert to help your kid with their homework, and even if you don’t have a clue, a little parental cheerleading can go a long way.
4. Stay organized, and keep your child that way too. Make sure you see ever paper sent home from school – teachers suggest having a special place your child knows to empty their backpack out every night. A brightly colored folder to keep permission slips, signed tests and assignments in for the trip back and forth from school is also a good idea.
5. Let your child make mistakes. It’s great to help kids with their homework, but don’t do it for them. Teachers want your kids to learn to do for themselves, and they want to be able to see which areas your child is struggling. If you perfectly correct your child’s homework every night their teachers can’t tell what they’re having trouble with.
6. Encourage your child to read. Keep reading aloud together even if your child is reading easily on their own. It’s good bonding for you, and it helps expand your child’s vocabulary and understanding of the books they are reading. Make reading fun, don’t push your kids limits too far and make them uncomfortable with the process.
7. Positive reenforcement. It works with your kids – it also works with their teachers. If a teacher is doing a good job and your child is having a good time in class, send a supportive email or note. A little gratitude goes a long way!
8. Give your teacher the benefit of the doubt. It’s important to support your kids and be on their side, but most teachers are on your child’s side too, even if they’ve been forced to discipline your kid. Get the whole story before you go on the defensive with a teacher.
9. Communicate, but not so much that your child doesn’t learn how to deal with problems on their own. Unless their safety is being threatened, try to help your child learn how to navigate problems with teachers on their own.
