4/1/10

10 Ways Parents Can Help To Close The Gap

Scholastic Teaching Resources SC-9780545048767 Closing The Achievement Gap Gr 6-12

  1. PICK A GREAT SCHOOL. Look for a school where the teachers are engaged withs students and parents are attentive. Get to know your child's teachers and don't hesitate to discuss concerns.
  2. BE WILLING TO FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS. Every American child has a legal right to a quality education. Federal law guarantees that you may opt out of failing schools. For more information check ed.gov/ncib.
  3. TURN THE TELEVISION OFF. Reading with your children promotes their intellectual development. If your wallet isn't recession proof, your local library is still free.
  4. BE DISCIPLINED ABOUT HOMEWORK. Emphasize effort and understanding of the material. If you can watch your child in basketball practice for an hour, you can sit with your child over homework for an hour.
  5. KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE PRIZE. There are tons of pretty kids who sing well and are great in sports. But education is the only pursuit that truly guarantees success. Keep focused on school - but make sure you are supporting your child's dreams and not your dreams for your child.
  6. GO TO MUSEUMS, ZOOS, AND AQUARIUMS. No time for a trip? Type the word "shark"  your internet browser and tour the world's oceans with your child.
  7. INVEST IN YOUR CHILDREN'S DEVELOPMENT. Find extracurricular classes and programs that interest them and support their learning. And think ahead: Talk to your bank or financial advisers about tax-free college funds.
  8. PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH. If you say you value education, then get one. Research show that the further moms go in school, the further their children will go.
  9. KNOW LOVE DOESN'T HAVE TO HURT. Sometimes we are too quick to focus on the negative. Children respond better to steady, positive vocabulary and clear direction. Nobody responds well to constantly being berated. 
  10. ACCEPT THAT EDUCATION IS A PROCESS. We're all trying to get it right. If your children are disciplined and curious about learning, you made them that way. But, if they're wild and unmotivated, that's on you too. Ask the hard questions educate yourself, and stay committed to your child's success. 
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