Learning and Teaching

School is Important

You will greatly help your child stay motivated for school if they believe that you think school and education is important. No doubt some parents will look back at their time in school with un-fond memories – maybe that’s you. Maybe you had a tough time in school for any number of reasons yet the challenge is to make sure your children don’t pick up on that.

If they know you used to skip school or that you didn’t do your homework then they will seize upon the fact and use it as the basis of their argument. “But Mum/Dad you didn’t do your homework so why should I do mine” will be their cry.

Here are some practical ways that you can make sure your child realises that your view of school is positive, regardless of your own experiences.

Spend time getting to know your son/daughter’s teacher. Talk to them about your expectations and hopes for your child and express any concerns you might have. Be open and be willing to listen to their advice as well as ask any questions you may have. After the initial parent/teacher interviews why not suggest that you keep in touch via email so that either of you can voice concerns as well as celebrate success.

Get involved in the programs that the school runs. If your child is part of a school drama production, for example, make sure that you attend. If possible go and support the athletics days, trivia quizzes, fundraisers or whatever is available. Consider offering your time and talents as a volunteer to help children read or get involved in practical ways around the building, organise fundraising events.

Make sure that your child is always able to do their homework when they are required to do so. That may mean that you create a quiet zone where other children aren’t allowed to watch tv or play noisy games; it may mean ensuring that they have access to the computer for research or that you always have adequate materials – papers, pens etc available to them. In a positive way this shows that you value their work and it also has the benefit of removing a number of excuses from their repertoire!

It will benefit you both if you know what assignments are due and when. Not that you need to take the responsibility for them being done but rather you can support them and be sure that you have done everything you can to help.

Whenever you talk about school find ways to do so in a positive way. Even find ways to praise the teachers or discuss the usefulness of what they are learning.

Your involvement and support will encourage your child to be more focussed and motivated to complete their tasks – not just for the teacher but for you too.

Written by Nigel Lane. www.nigellane.com.au Used by permission