Want your kids to do well in school? Get involved!

While many parents mistakenly believe that it’s the teachers job to look after their children’s education, research shows that children who have a parent or caregiver who is involved in their education, do better at school, both inside and outside the classroom.

Children with parents who are involved in their schooling are more likely to:

• Get better grades and test results
• Pass matric and go on to further education
• Become more confident and motivated in the classroom
• Behave well at school, in the classroom and socially

Additionally, they are less likely to:

• To feel bad about themselves and others
• To require discipline
• Behave in upsetting ways, or disturb teaching and learning

The reality is that many parents in our country deal with issues that make it difficult for them to assist their children’s academic journey.

Many parents face challenges like work demands and a lack of transport which can make it difficult for them attend school meetings, or to volunteer or even attend school events. Some parents may feel worried, or have a hostile relationship with teachers and principals. The good news is that there is work that can be done to close these gaps and help our kids succeed in school.

So how can parents who are already juggling so many responsibilities, find the time to invest in their kids’ education?

Here are some practical ways for parents to expand their role in their children’s schooling in a meaningful way:

Teach your children the importance of discipline and routine. Children thrive on routine. Knowing what is expected from them every day, makes it easier for them to follow, without having to renegotiate things like home work, bath-time, reading time and bed time.

Work with your child’s teacher and don’t undermine them to your child. Teachers and parents need to stay on the same team, even when they disagree. If you disagree with your child’s teacher, take it up with them directly without involving your child. This is in the best interests of  your child’s education.

Understand your children’s school day. This may simply involve showing interest in their subjects and what they are learning, as well as their day to day schedules and what they experience at school. Support starts at home.

Show your children that you value good education by getting involved in their schooling and showing that school is worthy of interest and time.

Develop a positive relationship with your children, children tend to communicate more when treated with love and respect.

Be positive about education. Show your children a positive attitude about school, explain why learning is valuable and teach them good behaviour.

Education is the key to freedom and the future.

Encouraging our children to see the value of learning, of staying in school to the end and encouraging them to dream and plan for their futures is the role of a parent.

When parents work together with their children’s schools and teachers, they can give their kids a sense of motivation, pride, belonging and hope!