There are a number of ways that you can be involved in your child’s education. Choosing to be an active participant in your child’s education is a way for you to support what is happening in the classroom. You can impact your child’s success in the classroom with the things you do at home and as you go about day-to-day life.
Reiterate classroom learning at home
You can be an active participant in your child’s education by reiterating classroom learning at home. For this to happen, you must first know what is happening inside the classroom. Talking to your child each day about what happens at school can give you an idea of what your child is learning. You can also stay on top of what is happening in the classroom by communicating with the teacher. And, if your child goes to a school that espouses a particular educational philosophy, you can get an idea of what happens regularly in the classroom by learning about the philosophy. Gaining an understanding of what is happening in the classroom will help you spot opportunities to reiterate that learning at home. For example, if you have a young child in a Montessori program, practical life activities are a core part of the curriculum. You can reiterate those activities at home by involving your child in similar activities around the house. Applying classroom learning at home can help cement concepts for children, and it is a way that you can participate in your child’s education.
Establish a consistent routine at home during the week
The routine that you establish for your child at home can directly impact how he or she does in the classroom. A child who goes to school well-rested and well-fed will be able to concentrate on learning instead of thinking about feeling tired or hungry. Having a routine also creates space for your child to explore topics of interest outside of the classroom. This can help your child develop the sense that learning is something that can happen in places other than just school. The ultimate goal of allowing your child to explore is to help him or her develop into an independent and life-long learner. For children, a routine can create a feeling of security and freedom. It helps your child be in a place mentally and emotionally that allows for learning inside and outside of the classroom. Establishing a consistent routine at home during the week is a practical way that you can participate in your child’s education.
The best schools encourage parental involvement in education. Approaching your child’s education as a collaborative effort between teacher and parent will give your child the best chance at success inside and outside of the classroom.