January is a time when everyone thinks about making changes: gym memberships spike and people resolve to eat better and make resolutions to be healthier, more financially responsible, more active in their communities. I've been spending some time lately with families, who are always curious about how to help make the next generation even greater by teaching them about potential. I get these questions a lot- about how parents can help their children become better readers and therefore, better students. Here are some changes you can make in the new year to help your child succeed.
Be an active participant in your own learning. The days of "do as I say, not as I do" should be behind you if you want your child to be an excellent student. Kids love to model everything they see adults doing- --whether it's movement, phrases, eating or habits. It's important for your child to see you on a quest for learning as well if you want them to journey to greatness academically. Set aside some reading time for you and your child so they experience people of all ages take the time to read. It's important for kids to know that reading isn't a chore or something they have to be forced to do- it's enjoyable and everyone does it. Consider designating certain times of day or certain nights as special reading times when television, computers and video games are given a break in favor of books. It's all about building a home where everyone learns, not just studies.
Be active in your child's schoolwork. You can't help what you don't know. Ask about their days at school, have them tell you what they learned and get them to explain to you when tests will take place and when assignments are due. This will help you not only more actively plan how you'll involve yourself in the schoolwork itself, but also help your child with their verbal communications skills. Having children explain things to you helps them discover their strengths, identify challenges and enable them to ask for help. You can also learn about what activities and special offerings your child's school can make
Think long-term. Learning takes place outside of the classroom, not just on weekdays because it's an all-year endeavor. Now is the time for you to start thinking about how you can keep your child's learning, curiosity and education going. Are there museum trips you can start planning? Are there any educational programs or events happening in your town that you can research and plan for today? What can set up now for your child's summer vacation?
Keep the conversation going. Talking to your child about their dreams, their hopes and their ambition is crucial. Only when your child understands that you believe in them, that they can achieve what they believe, only then will they know that they indeed can. You have to teach children that schoolwork is their job and that you want them to succeed. By having an active conversation about their future, you can help them start building a brighter and better one.
I'll be sharing tips like this year-round for parents and students alike, so follow along so you can help your home become a place of learning and hope for brighter tomorrows.