How to Make Sure Your Children Are Successful

A child’s academic success is affected by many factors. And while you can’t take their tests for them, there are several ways you can all but ensure their success in school.

Monitor out-of-school activities by:
· Setting limits on TV watching
· Checking up on children when you’re not home
· Arranging for after-school activities and supervised care

Model the value of learning, self-discipline, and hard work by:
· Communicating through questioning and conversation
· Demonstrating that achievement comes from working hard
· Using reference materials and the library

Establish a daily family routine by:
· Providing time and a quiet place to study
· Assigning responsibility to get up and to go to bed

Express high but realistic expectations for achievement by:
· Recognizing and encouraging special talents.
· Setting goals and standards that are appropriate for children’s age and maturity.
· Informing friends and family about successes.

Encourage children’s development and progress in school by:
· Maintaining a warm and supportive home
· Showing interest in children’s progress at school
· Helping with homework
· Reading, listening to children read, and talking about what is being read
· Telling stories and sharing problems
· Writing letters, lists and messages