Education is the foundation of a child’s future success. While schools play a vital role in shaping a child’s education, parents are equally important in ensuring their child’s academic achievement. Parental involvement in education is crucial for a child’s academic success, social development, and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that children whose parents are involved in their education have better academic outcomes, higher self-esteem, and lower rates of absenteeism.
Why is parental involvement important in education?
Enhances academic achievement
When parents are involved in their child’s education, it has a positive impact on their academic performance. Parental involvement helps children develop a positive attitude towards learning and encourages them to work harder. Parents can help their children with homework, attend parent-teacher conferences, and communicate with teachers to monitor their child’s progress. All these activities have a positive impact on academic performance and can help children achieve better grades.
Improves social development
Parental involvement in education has a significant impact on a child’s social development. Children whose parents are involved in their education have better social skills, are more confident, and have better communication skills. Parental involvement provides children with a sense of security and support, which enables them to interact better with their peers.
Boosts emotional well-being
Parental involvement in education also has a positive impact on a child’s emotional well-being. Children whose parents are involved in their education have better self-esteem, are more motivated, and have a positive attitude towards school. When parents take an interest in their child’s education, it sends a message that education is important, which can help children develop a positive attitude towards learning.
How to promote parental involvement in education?
Attend parent-teacher conferences
Parent-teacher conferences provide an opportunity for parents to meet with their child’s teacher to discuss their child’s progress, strengths, and weaknesses. Attending parent-teacher conferences is essential as it helps parents understand their child’s academic performance, and identify areas where they can help their child improve.
Communicate with teachers
Communication between parents and teachers is crucial for a child’s academic success. Parents should regularly communicate with their child’s teacher to monitor their child’s progress, discuss any concerns, and identify ways to support their child’s learning.
Help with homework
Parents can help their children with homework by creating a designated study area, setting aside time for homework, and providing necessary resources such as books, pens, and a quiet environment. Helping with homework also provides an opportunity for parents to monitor their child’s progress, identify areas where their child needs help, and provide support.
Attend school events
Parents should attend school events such as open houses, sports events, and concerts. Attending school events provides an opportunity for parents to meet their child’s teachers, interact with other parents, and become familiar with the school environment.
Volunteer at school
Volunteering at school provides an opportunity for parents to become more involved in their child’s education. Parents can volunteer to assist with school activities such as field trips, fundraisers, and classroom activities. Volunteering also provides an opportunity for parents to get to know their child’s teacher and other school staff.
Set academic goals
Parents can set academic goals with their child to help them stay motivated and focused on their studies. Goals can be short-term or long-term and can be related to academic performance, attendance, or behavior. Setting goals also provides an opportunity for parents to monitor their child’s progress and provide support where necessary.
Read with your child
Reading with children is a great way to promote literacy skills and develop a love for reading. Parents can read with their children at bedtime, or set aside time for reading together during the day. Reading together also provides an opportunity for parents to discuss books, share ideas, and build a strong bond with their child.
Engage in extracurricular activities
Extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and clubs can provide a platform for parents to engage in their child’s education. Parents can attend their child’s extracurricular activities, provide support, and encourage their child to participate in activities they are interested in.
Create a positive learning environment
Creating a positive learning environment at home is essential for a child’s academic success. Parents can do this by providing a quiet study area, minimizing distractions, and setting aside time for homework and study. Parents can also encourage their child to take breaks, eat healthy snacks, and exercise regularly to promote overall health and well-being.
Encourage self-motivation
Encouraging self-motivation is crucial for a child’s academic success. Parents can do this by praising their child’s efforts and achievements, setting high expectations, and providing opportunities for their child to take responsibility for their learning. Encouraging self-motivation also promotes independence, resilience, and a positive attitude towards learning.
