Helping Your Child Succeed in School
Family Discussion Guide

Today, more than ever, a quality education is essential to the future of our children. As a parents you play a crucial role in how well your child performs in school. One of the best things you can do for your child is make sure he or she gets the best possible education.

Studies show that children do better in school when their parents are actively involved in their education. Children learn more, get better grades and have more confidence in themselves.

Here are ten steps you can take toward helping your child succeed in school. Today's youth are tomorrow's leaders. As a parent, you have a major role in the learning process. By getting involved you can make a difference!

1. Talk daily with your child about school activities.

• Establish a regular time to talk informally about school.
• Ask open-ended questions that require more then an "yes" or "no" answer.
• Listen to your child without judging him or her.
• Let your child know you consider his or her schoolwork very important.

It's important to develop the habit of talking about school with your children every school day. Many families discuss daily activities over dinner. Or you may want to sit down with your child later in the evening. You might try asking questions such as "What did you read about today?" or "What was your best class today?" or "How was your math test?"

2. Talk regularly with your child's teachers.

• Know the names of your child's teachers.
• Attend school orientations, open houses and other school activities.
• Tell your child and his or her teachers that you are available to work on any problem or concern your child may have in school.
• Schedule--and attend--parent-teacher conferences.

Teachers are pleased when parents show interest in helping their children succeed in school. Meet your children's teachers and make your child's education a team effort.

3. Be sure your child understands and completes homework assignments.

• Set a regularly scheduled time to do homework.
• Provide a quiet, well-equipped area for your child to study.
• Be available to answer questions during your child's study time.
• Review completed homework assignments with your child.
• Set a good example for your child.

The kitchen table and a box of supplies can become a study center for your child. Better yet, provide a desk in your child's room if you can. Set a regularly scheduled time for homework -- perhaps right after dinner -- and stick to it. Ask to see finished homework assignments and point out trouble spots, but let the child do the correcting.

4. Check your child's test scores and grades.

• Ask your child and your child's teacher about test scores throughout the year.
• Check for areas where your child may be having difficulty.
• Discuss test results with teachers or school personnel if you have questions.

You can help alleviate "test stress" by helping your child prepare for tests. Keeping up on homework, getting plenty of sleep the night before, eating a good breakfast -- all these will help improve your child's performance on tests. Keep test scores in perspective with the child's daily accomplishments.

5. Identify problem areas early and seek help.

• Monitor your child's grades and progress throughout the year.
• Take action early if you spot a potential problem area.
• If your child is having difficulty in school, ask the principal what sources are available to you for assistance.

Most school district now can provide special testing to help diagnose learning problems. Federal law requires schools to provide an education for those with learning difficulties. If your child is having problems, check with the building principal to see what special services are available and what is required by law.

6. Get a tutor if your child needs help.

• Many school systems provide special tutoring assistance.
• Check with social service organizations to help find free or reduced-cost tutoring.

Again, by spotting problem areas and providing the assistance your child needs, you can help your child achieve in school -- and enjoy school more.

7. Be active in school organizations.

• Become familiar with parent and community groups that work cooperatively with your school.
• Attend school functions and volunteer to assist with activities at your child's school.

8. Ask questions about your school system

• Learn how decisions are made within the school system by asking your child's teacher, principal or school board officials.
• Contact the proper individual when you have a question or need assistance.
• Remember, the school is there to serve you and meet the needs of your child.

This is your school system. You have a right to know how it works. Don't be intimidated by the system or bureaucracy.

9. Be sure your child understands his or her responsibilities.

• Know your school's rules and review them with your child.
• Set reachable goals for your child and communicate them to your child.

The more your child can be successful, the more he or she will enjoy school. Make sure your expectations fit your child's ability level, and that you include both short-term and long-term goals. Work with your child's teacher to set appropriate goals for your child.

10.  Be your child's advocate.

• Take personal responsibility for your child's education.
• Show interest in your child's school activities at an early age and continue through high school.
• Praise good schoolwork and good grades.
• Encourage your child every step of the way.

Reading is vitally important to your child's success in school. Begin reading to your child as early as possible. Subscribe to newspapers and other reading materials and let your child see you reading them. Encourage your child to explore his or her interests by visiting the public library on a regular basis.

Remember, the best gift you can give your child is a good education. You can make the difference!