Most of the readers of this blog have kids and, if we're not home schooling, we want and hope that our kids will do well in school. Today's guest author has some great advice on how to promote learning and success in school.
Every parent who wants their kid’s grades to improve should read this article then share it with others seeking advice that really works. While I’m not a professional child psychologist, I’ve learned some techniques over the years that turn uninspired students into eager pupils and apathetic moms and dads into incredible advocates for their children’s success in the classroom.
As a former college football and track athlete, I’ve discovered the importance of preparing to succeed by applying the time, effort, and energy required to earn it. Without either of the three, failure is more likely. Effort and time without the appropriate amount of energy is like a two legged stool, and should not be expected to hold up. Energy and time without narrowly defined effort, is a little more than busy work and often misses the mark. Energy and Effort alone are merely a waste of time.
Any parent can design an on the job training program and become their kid’s first success coach. Sound like a labor of love but too much work? Well, it’s easier than you might think.
Reading and Writing
Reading teaches our children the meaning of words. Writing is the exercise of sharing with others what words mean to them. I suggest a progress program that increases your child’s comprehension and pace. Reading aloud for 30 minutes a day during the week works effectively to achieve both.
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Start with school related literature or homework reading assignments.
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If they become better readers or bored with the subject matter, consider allowing them to read interesting magazine or newspaper articles to break the monotony.
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How do you know when they’re ready for more advanced or different reading material? Because you’ve be there every day, offering encouragement every step of the way.
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Children who avoid writing assignments, typically lack confidence more so than skill.
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Since writing with correct grammar and clarity require a bit of work, I suggest two short writing assignments each week.
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After you’ve read their work, congratulate their efforts then share your kind feedback.
Decrease TV and Video Time
Whether we’d like to admit it or not, watching television is a humongous time waster, only second to video games, and should only be permitted when home work is finished and checked each day. Sound too dictatorial? Good, to parent means to care-take. In other words, it’s your job to legislate and carry out a strategy for success. My son’s grades sky-rocketed once denied TV and games Monday through Thursday. It was rough at first – then whamm-o! The result was better grades and less agitated children. That’s a win-win for them and their parents.
Check and Inspect
It’s a proven fact that kids are more capable and far likely to complete their homework when parents inspect it on a regular basis. Look, I know you’ve finished school already but remember your role as the first success coach. A teacher’s job is instructing and yours is checking and inspecting. Be a homework hero or schoolwork she-ro. Your child is worth the time.
Touching Base
Teachers love it when parents are proactive and accessible. Plan to make contact with your child’s teacher(s) at least twice a month which shouldn’t take more than five minute each. Most school districts provide email and/or phone information so that parents who like to get involved with their kid’s success can check on their progress regularly. Call or send two emails a month to ask how things are going in class. Set a reminder in your iPhone or Daily Planner so that you won’t forget. The instructor and the inspector putting in a bit of extra time on a child’s behalf, that’s a winning combination every time.
Every parent who wants their kid’s grades to improve should read this article then share it with others seeking advice that really works. It only takes minutes a day to help your son or daughter earn better grades
Victor writes money management tips and other helpful hints for ace cash express. Before joining ace, Victor wrote 13 bestselling novels and worked in upper management in the banking industry. When Victor is not helping consumers with responsible spending ideas, he’s working on a “Talking Money Tips” audio book. Follow him on twitter @iwritemoneytips @acecash
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