Many researchers have taken the time to study the effects of parental involvement in education. The results have shown that parents, carers and extended family are the most important influencers in a child’s live and their support can play a significant role in every stage of education. In fact, parents who help their children with their learning and show an interest in school make a huge difference in terms of achievement and general behaviour. Wetherby Pembridge, an independent school in New York, explore in greater detail below.
It is believed that students are more likely to try harder and perform better in school if they think their parents are interested in their work and consequent grades. After all, parents are the primary and enduring educators of their children. With that said, it’s important that they continue to support their child’s development by encouraging learning at home. They should receive adequate information from the child’s school so that they know what their child is learning about and whether they are performing well and trying their best.
If you’re a parent and you’re unsure how to become more involved in your child’s education, you should start by simply talking to them about it more often. At the end of each day, ask them plenty of open-ended questions about their lessons and what they have been learning about. This will show them how interested you are and will also solidify the things they discussed in class which will help them retain the information. Be sure to focus on your child’s efforts and hard work, rather than the results.
Make sure your child has a dedicated study area set up in your home that’s quiet and free from distractions. It’s important that, while they’re doing their homework, you are available for them to ask any questions they might have. Otherwise they’ll feel frustrated and give up too soon. For more information on how you can support your child’s education, it’s worth contacting the school for some further guidance.