With back-to-school on the minds of many parents, the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) created a “A Guide for Parents.” The greatest burden of educating our children falls on teachers but many parents may not realize that personally monitoring and guiding their child’s education has a huge impact on academic success. A highly competitive global environment requires children these days to learn at a higher level than their parents in order to achieve success.1
Some parents may not have the necessary resources to follow every recommendation, but it’s important to start where you are with what you have and acknowledge small steps can lead to long journeys. The education system is designed to educate students on various topics relevant to their learning success, but parents who know their children closely have a greater advantage in recognizing signs of falling behind (mental health challenges, lack of emotional intelligence, inability to focus or comprehend, etc.). Check out the PTA’s recommendations below to ensure your child has a successful learning experience this academic year:1
- Up-to-date textbooks and technology: Examine your child’s school books, determine the number of computers available for student use in the classroom or library, and inquire about the use of incorporating digital media into instruction and school activities
- Strong parent-teacher communication: Share your child’s strengths, weaknesses or any special concerns with teachers, so they can adapt lessons to match your child’s interests and learning style
- Transparency around learning objectives and tests: Parents should know the learning objectives at the beginning of each new class and school year, as well as how and when your child will be evaluated against those objectives
- Information on school performance: Schools are required by law to provide up-to-date information about its academic standing, graduation rates and students’ access to advanced coursework compared to others in your district or state
- Supervise homework: Request a curriculum outline from the teacher, so that you can help your child prepare in advance for classes and tests
- Create a quiet place to read and study: Insist that your child turn off all screens and digital media, including cell phones, while studying and doing homework
- Teach organizational skills: Educate your child about prioritization and meeting deadlines; if your child struggles with procrastination, help them break large tasks into smaller ones
All children are entitled to an education that will help them reach their full academic, professional and personal potential regardless of income, ethnicity, family circumstances, disability or school readiness. Make the decision today that your child will have a successful academic year. If you are interested in becoming a member and gaining access to our Resource Center ($10/month or $99/annually), visit https://advocatefortheinnocent.org/memberships/ to learn more.
1 – https://www.pta.org/docs/default-source/files/family-resources/2018/family-guides/familyguide-education.pdf