Many parents find it challenging to engage in their child’s education to get the results they desire. As a parent, I try to empathize what I have learned as an educator from elementary to high school for more than two decades, while also being an advocate for my children.
Whether your child seems destined for ivy league or you are just trying to make it through this week, I invite you to consider trying these 10 ideas to engage in your child’s education.
>> LISTEN :: Momfessions Podcast :: Education Interrupted :: Episode 91 <<
1. Conferences
Attend all scheduled school conferences and come with questions. If your child’s school offers the opportunity to have a conference with your child’s teacher, it is important that you attend. Arrive with at least one question for the teacher. Possible questions to consider are:
- What do you view as my child’s academic strengths?
- May I see a sample of my child’s completed work?
- How is my child doing, socially, in his or her interactions with other students? With adults?
2. Communication
Read (or skim) all communication sent home. You are a mom, so I know you are busy and inundated with things other people think you should read. Make time to skim school fliers for critical information, such as event dates, opportunities to engage with the school, and any upcoming changes. If your child is able, have him or her read it aloud to you in the car on the ride home from school or while preparing a meal. Ask your child to highlight important dates for you.
3. They Are Kids
Remember that children often show up differently at school than they do at home. As hard as it will be, listen with an open mind to information about your child, even if you disagree. Typically, children behave differently when surrounded by their peers than their parents. A teacher who knows you are willing to listen, and at least receive what he or she is sharing about your child, will be more likely to engage and share information with you going forward. If you are still in doubt, ask a follow-up question such as: Can you tell me why you think my daughter made that choice?
>> RECOMMENDED RESOURCE :: Guide to Private Schools in Fort Worth & Surrounding Areas <<
4. Assume the Best
You will likely have at least one encounter with someone throughout your child’s education with whom you strongly disagree or feel is misrepresenting your child. While you may very well be right, I encourage you to take a moment to breathe, and try to assume the individual really is invested in your child’s success.
5. Support
Ask how you can support your child’s growth areas. From time to time, your child may receive an undesirable grade. I recommend reaching out to your child’s teacher and asking what he or she suggests you try at home to help your child build that skill. If you are limited on time, ask for a suggestion for a computer-based program that will allow you to quickly view reports. If it is related to a reading skill, ask for your child’s reading level and some of the critical skills he or she needs to learn, and then solicit help from the librarian at the public library.
6. Show Gratitude
I think we all agree that teaching is not an easy job. Make time to show gratitude. Write a handwritten card about a specific trait you appreciate. If you have the financial resources, find out the teacher’s favorite drink, snack, restaurant, and hobby, so you can purchase “just because” gift cards every now and then, or make a special delivery of one of his or her favorites.
>> RELATED READ :: Back-to-School Teacher Gift Ideas, from Elementary to High School <<
7. Engage with Homework
Familiarize yourself with your child’s homework. While I am not encouraging you do your child’s homework for him or her, I strongly suggest that you become familiar with the type and frequency of assignments he or she is given. If your child’s grades are less than desirable, then I also suggest you time how long it takes him or her to complete assignments. Both will allow you to be more informed when engaging with the teacher.
8. Review Reports
Most likely, your child takes at least one standardized exam each year. Make time to review all reports, and keep them to compare them year over year. Consider allowing the reports to guide your choices for enrichment when school is not in session.
9. Know the School Counselor
In many cases, the school counselor is an untapped resource. Make time to build a relationship with your child’s counselor, and share information about your child’s interests and goals. The counselor may have information about enrichment opportunities that offer social and academic benefits.
10. Volunteer
If your school doesn’t have a formal program, then offer your help. Maybe you can only give one hour a school year, but that one hour will build your awareness of the school culture and result in you being viewed as a partner.
