Most parents understand that students who eat well and get enough sleep do better in school; however, school days are long, schedules are busy and, with technology and extra-curricular activities, distracted children often need much more help to settle down and focus on school work. Parental involvement is a key indicator for higher grades, according to the Lewis Center for Educational Research. Parents set the standards for school success by providing guidance, encouragement, rules and limits. The consistent application of a few concrete actions can result in better grades for your child.
Step 1
Get involved in your child's education. Check your child's homework each night and review his school work. Meet with teachers to discuss his performance. Join the PTA and volunteer at your child's school. Attend school activities like parent-teacher night or special events. Talk to your child about school every day.
Step 2
Designate a quiet and well-lit place for homework and study. Remove distractions and insist that your child keep the study area neat and organized. Provide organizational tools and study aids to help out.
Step 3
Set rules at home to encourage and support learning. Set a specific time for homework and study. Limit television to 10 hours a week and limit the use of computers and telephones. Ask your child to help make the rules, such as no distractions during study time and how much time to spend reading each week. Let your child know that all homework and assignments must be completed.
Step 4
Lead by example. Read, study or take a class. Let your child know that learning is important to you. Find ways to help your child connect her learning to real life, like using math skills to help with grocery shopping.
Step 5
Involve your child in activities that make learning fun, like a family spelling bee with prizes or a summer computer camp at a local university. Groups like 4H clubs combine fun and learning with hands-on activities, or your child can join a youth reading group at the public library
Step 6
Read with your child. Children who read with parents or other adults have better grades, according to the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension. Let your child know that reading is important by having books in your home and taking your child to the library regularly. Talk to your child about the books he reads and ask about plots, characters and his thoughts on the book.
Step 7
Help your child become an independent learner. Don't help too much with homework or special projects. Make sure she does the work herself and overcomes any challenges on her own. Allow your child space for independent growth, time alone and the freedom to experiment with making choices.
Step 8
Arrange for a tutor for your child if he is struggling with one subject, but does well in other subjects. A tutor can help with overall study skills and provide one-on-one attention that your child may need to become a stronger student.
Step 9
Talk to your child's doctor if nothing you do improves her grades. Find out if your child has a learning disability, mental health problems or medical issues. Look for signs that your child needs more help: inability to concentrate; lack of motivation; concerns about her eyesight; homework is a battle and is not getting better; frequent behavioral problems at school; or your child has difficulty making friends and getting along with other children.
Tips and Warnings
- Exercise and physical activity improve blood flow to the brain and improve self-esteem, concentration and memory.
References
- Lewis Center for Educational Research: In what ways does Parent Involvement affect Children's Academic Performance?
- Family Involvement Partnership for Learning: Get Involved
- University of Delaware Cooperative Extension: How Parents Can Help Their Kids Be Successful In School
- MSNBC: Want to boost kids' grades? Get them moving.
