It's unfortunate that school holds such a revered place in society. I don't say that because I feel education is unnecessary. On the contrary, I'm a teacher (15 years) and I believe in the power of education to transform lives and benefit society.
I'm referring to the fact that parents and kids look at school performance as the ultimate gauge of self worth. Get good grades, get into a good college, get a better job and have a better life.
What a chain of events!
And you see? It all starts with good grades. I won't write the chain of events when your child gets poor grades. It's enough to stop trying.
So, with this approach in mind, I'd like to add a little bit of calm and practical advice for parents to use with their kids so that school can become just another piece of the puzzle.
Tip #1 - Decide how YOU feel about the role of education in their lives. Ask yourself, "Do I believe in the chain of events?", "Do I believe poor grades determine success or failure?", "Do I believe a healthy, well-rounded, happy child can be successful?"
These questions are important because if you say them but don't believe them, your child will feel it. You'll let out your true feelings without even knowing it. So, decide now what your philosophy of education is and communicate it to your child.
Tip #2 - Find what subjects interest your child. This way you can begin to build on their strengths. It's important to pay attention to weaknesses as well but I think we get lost in this area. There's way too much focus on what's wrong rather than what's right.
Tip #3 - Talk about how someone succeeds in anything. If you're being honest with yourself, you'll know that hard work and interest are the only things needed to succeed. In your child's life, they need to learn that good things come to those who follow what they like to do. Then, they won't mind working hard.
Tip# 4 - Be positive. Be aware of the words you use when as you go through the day. Are you optimistic or pessimistic? What do you do when things get tough? How do you react? Your child will see all these things and learn from you. When you show you can be calm and look for solutions, your child will do the same.
Tip #5 - Love your child for what they are. You may be an avid reader while your child doesn't like to read. You may be an athlete while your child likes to draw. What are you going to do? If you want a healthy, well-adjusted child, you'll let it be and thank the heavens you have a wonderful child who brings joy to your life. Nothing else is needed.
Love makes the world go round. Love helps everything your child does.
As you can see, you have a lot to keep in mind if you want your child to succeed in school. Is it worth it? Absolutely. Are there more things to know? Absolutely. Will your child's educational experience be more satisfying and rewarding? Absolutely.
Do it for them...do it for yourself. |
