We all want our kids to be happy and successful when they grow up. No two kids are the same. Some are motivated enough to sit down and do their homework right after school, while others would rather play with their friends or go on the computer and engage with virtual reality.
No matter what type of child you have, it is your responsibility to help them make the most out of the opportunities presented to them through education. Remember that we are extremely lucky in the Western world, having access to free education.
It is, however, what you make out of it that matters. Below you will find a few tips on how to support your child through every stage.
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Communicate with the School
It is important that you know what is going on with your child when they are not at home. Learn about the different subjects they are learning about, and the exams they are taking.
If you know what is expected of your child at school, you will be able to work on a strategy with them and the school to achieve the best outcomes short term and long term. You need to know what they are learning, what their strengths and weaknesses are, so you can put the right level of support in place.
Get Involved In Learning
If you want to show your child that you care about their education and are there to help, you might want to pick up their books more than once a term. It is important that you discuss the topics and check that they understand what they are learning about.
You cannot just assume that they are old enough to let the teacher know that they are struggling with a subject; you might want to check their knowledge in a playful way; so they don’t think that you are testing them at home.
Help Them Cope
It is crucial that you monitor your child’s peer relationships and emotional wellbeing. No matter if you worry about bullying, you have a hypersensitive child, or they have learning difficulties; you will need to help them make the most out of the time they are spending at school.
If they have issues with their hearing or their vision; you will need to let the teachers know that they require some adjustments. However, it is your responsibility to arrange eye tests and hearing aid maintenance regularly; so they can learn as effectively as possible.
Get the Right Health Assessments
No matter if you suspect a behavioral issue or a learning difficulty; you will need to sit down with your child’s teacher and get the right support for your child. It is often easier to get a specialist appointment if you get a school referral. Especially if you show that you care about your child’s behavior and the quality of their education.
In case you suspect that your child has a disability or health condition, you should ask an outsider’s expert opinion.
Healthy Diet
It is important that you provide your child with a healthy and balanced diet. You need to avoid processed food and sweets as much as you can. However, you also have to monitor what they eat in school.
In case you are the kind of parent who just gives them money for lunch, without checking what they ate. You will need to start paying more attention. Kids are under a lot of peer pressure; eating salad or fruit in front of their friends might not be something they choose to do- unless you explain to them why it is good for them.
Reward Them for Extra Work or Improvement
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Learning should not stop at the classroom. You should get into the routine of checking your child’s homework. Until you can be sure that they are responsible enough to get on with the work.
At the same time, you might want to set up sessions at home to supplement your child’s school education. You can watch documentaries together related to what they are learning about, and discuss what you saw.
You might also give them some challenges on educational gaming sites. This will keep their knowledge fresh and get them more involved in the topic.
As a responsible adult and a parent; you have to make sure that your child starts life and education with the best chances of success. Support them, get involved in their school work, and communicate with their teacher to help them on their learning journey.