Teachers know which parents are involved with their children’s school work. It is easily apparent to them. In order for your children to be successful in school, your involvement is necessary. You can assist them with their school work, with studying and by volunteering at the school. Today’s post will focus on homework and studying with your children.

• Prepare a healthy snack for your child when they return home from school. This gives your child some energy to get her tasks done. It is also a good way to transition from school to home as well as allows you as a parent to talk a bit with your child.
• Provide a quiet place for homework and studying. Do not allow music or TV even if your child says it helps. It doesn’t. (There are always exceptions to the rules. Parents and teachers will know if this is the case. Follow your instincts.)
• Help your child stay organized. Provide a planner, notepad, or some other way of keeping track of what homework is due, what tests and reports are coming up, etc.
• When assisting your child, be patient, speak quietly and be positive.
• Find what works best with your child. Is it better for him to use flash cards or re-write their notes? What is their learning style? If you need assistance with this, the teacher can be helpful with this. You can also learn by observing your child. Then use what works.
• Praise your child on their efforts, not only on the results.
• If you require special study materials, speak to your child’s teacher. He may be able to provide these for you or suggest where to purchase them at a discount. You may also be able to find these at the library, thrift store or by borrowing from other parents.
• Don’t do for your child, assist.
• If the school work is too difficult for you, swallow your pride and talk to the teacher. You may be surprised to know that this is a common problem. You may be provided with a textbook, or personal help from the teacher for your child.
• Attend all parent/teacher meetings. Call or write to your child’s teacher if your child is still having a problem with a subject even with your help.

When you begin helping your child with their studies early in her school life, it makes it easy later when school gets more difficult. There is a routine, a setting for studying and open lines of communication between you, your child and your child’s teachers.