Parental involvement can be a huge predictor of a child’s academic success. As soon as a baby is born, his parents become his first teachers, educating him about the world we live in. When kids start school, parents become their child’s advocate, making sure his needs are met at school and supporting him to achieve all that he can. Just as parents take on the responsibility of nourishing a child’s body, they are also responsible for nurturing his mind.
Benefits of Parental Involvement
According to the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), family involvement in education is twice as predictive of students’ academic achievement as family socioeconomic status, and the more involved parents are, the more their kids will succeed. Kids whose parents participate in their schooling have higher grades, test scores and graduation rates; better school attendance; increased motivation and self-esteem; lower rates of suspension; decreased use of drugs and alcohol; and fewer instances of violent behavior.
Involvement Leads to Success
A surefire way to encourage interest in academics is to set a good example. If parents don’t care about education, neither will their kids. When parents show an interest in school and in learning, kids will take a cue from them. According to MDE, one of the most consistent predictors of a child’s academic success is her parent’s expectations, and parents of high-achieving students set higher standards for their kids’ educational activities. This means that if you encourage and expect your child to succeed and you show an interest and support her along the way, she probably will.
When to Get Involved
The earlier in a child’s educational process parent involvement begins, the stronger the effects will be, according to MDE. The United States Department of Education recommends reading aloud every day, as early as infancy, to introduce your child to language and encourage literacy later on. Throughout the toddler and preschool years, parents can be involved by continued reading, counting games, and just observing and talking about the world around you, since little ones learn best by observing.
Elementary School
Parents of elementary schoolers can get involved by volunteering at their child’s school and attending Open House and parent-teacher conferences, as well as any special performance or ceremony your child is involved in. Communicating with your child’s teacher can help you work together to ensure his success. The Department of Education recommends continued reading aloud every day, as well as setting a good example by letting your child see you reading at home. Sit down with your child each night to go over homework and talk about what he did at school that day. When kids bring home schoolwork “masterpieces,” praise them for their hard work and display their work proudly to show that you support them wholeheartedly. Even if your child fails, praise his efforts and encourage him to keep trying.
Middle School
Parental involvement often starts to wane during the middle and high school years, but kids might need Mom and Dad’s support now more than ever. Become involved by communicating with teachers, counselors and coaches, and attending parents’ nights and other school events. The Department of Education recommends helping your child learn to get organized and set goals. Continue to discuss her classes and homework. So, instead of posting her finger painting on the refrigerator, hang her A-plus history test or outstanding essay. If your child is having trouble, look for tutoring opportunities and meet with teachers to discuss ways to help her succeed.
High School
Being involved in your high-schooler’s education will help him prepare for college or the workplace. The Department of Education recommends taking an active role in helping your child choose his classes each semester and staying involved with the school through volunteering, and attending school events. Work with your child’s guidance counselor to find the best college or career path for him and set a good example when it comes to balancing work and social life, organization and handling responsibilities.
