Teacher’s Advice: Ten Thoughts on Helping Your Child Succeed in School

1. SELF-ESTEEM

Children think highly of themselves when they find themselves succeeding and they find others liking them and respecting them. The best coping skill we can offer any child is a strong sense of self-worth. Build on their strengths rather than their weaknesses.

2. LISTENING

An idea: Ask your child a question and wait, really WAIT for the answer. Wait at least three seconds and your child’s response will be longer, more thoughtful and more confident. Besides, you’ll have paid your child one of the highest compliments a parent can bestow. You listened. Remember: Children who are listened to will be more likely to listen when we have something important to say.

3. STUDY ROUTINE

To do their best in school students need to study every day. For 7–8th graders he/she should study 50 minutes/2 hours per day. Set up a study spot and have them study the same time everyday. Study first and then activities (TV, sports, etc.).

4. ORGANIZATION

Organization is important. Students need a daily assignment reminder and a calendar for planning activities and bit projects. Help them keep their bookbags organized and a place to put all their school belongings for the next day.

5. CONTROL YOUR ANGER

Teenagers should know that you are unhappy when they’ve misbehaved, but nothing is accomplished if you lose control of your anger when trying to discipline. If you’re out of control you can’t teach teenagers what they need to know.

6. HELP YOUR CHILD BECOME A GOOD READER

Face it, reading is a skill that’s basic to most of your child’s learning. Let your teenager see you reading often. Take them to the library often and let them select books to take home. Urge them to set goals, such as reading a book a month.

7. RESPECT A LOT

When you overcome the urge to call your child dumb, klutzy, stupid, or lazy you show respect. When you value the uniqueness of your child, you show respect. When you trust your child with responsibilities you show respect. When you keep your promises and apologize for your mistakes you show respect. Children need to be treated with politeness and respect as much as adults.

8. ESTABLISH RULES & EXPECTATIONS

Teenagers need and want limits. They want to know what is expected of them. Don’t make rules you don’t intend to enforce. Don’t expect teenagers to know what is expected of them. Then enforce the rules, consistently.

9. POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT

Give your child lots of praise and positive words of encouragement. Tell your child you love him.

10. MOTIVATE YOUR CHILD

If you love, respect, listen to, disciple, build self-esteem and expect enough of your teenager, chances are he or she will be well-motivated.