Parents play an influential role in a child's attitude and success in school, the U.S. Department of Education explains. Bridging the gap between home and school sets your child up for a successful education by providing him with support and encouragement. Whether your child is struggling in school or excels in academics, parental involvement is a key element in future success. Helping your child succeed in school does not require a background in education or hours of work at home.
Step 1
Talk about school in a positive manner with your child. Avoid negative statements about school in general or about specific subjects.
Step 2
Communicate with your child's teacher on a regular basis. Discuss any concerns about your child's progress or education before they become major issues. Alert the teacher to any potential situations in your child's life that could affect her progress in the classroom.
Step 3
Volunteer in your child's school if your schedule allows. Consider joining the parent-teacher association to get more involved in the school community. Your presence in the school allows you to stay current with happenings so you can ensure your child is receiving a quality education.
Step 4
Set house rules about homework and studying so your child understands that they are a priority. Create a designated homework area and procedures to create a homework routine. Check with your child each evening to make sure she completes all of her homework assignments.
Step 5
Learn with your child at home and in the community through hands-on activities. Read labels, estimate the grocery bill and discuss the origin of food items as you grocery-shop. Visit children's museums, art centers, natural sites and other local highlights to encourage earning.
Step 6
Visit the library with your child. Encourage him to select a variety of genres and topics in the books that he checks out. Read the books together at home, asking him questions to extend learning from the books.
Step 7
Talk about things you do and see with your child on a daily basis, from the recipe you are preparing to wildlife you see during a walk around the neighborhood. Talking and listening helps a child acquire language skills and learn about the world, the Department of Education notes.
Step 8
Demonstrate your own learning and use of knowledge gained through school. This might include researching a question online, taking a educational course or recalling your knowledge of geometry to build a bookshelf.
Step 9
Praise your child for his academic efforts. Avoid putting too much pressure on your child to achieve perfect grades.
