Parents’ Guide: Effective Ways to Support Your Child’s Education According to Research

by Dana Berri - CDA Licensed Psychologist at Aman Lil Afia Clinic ????? ???? ???????

As schools start up again, many parents focus on the basics - dropping their children off, asking about their day, and keeping up with their homework. This is certainly essential; however, parental involvement in a child's education goes beyond these routines.

According to research, parents’ involvement in their children’s education can significantly impact their social and emotional well-being. Thus, your support is important in shaping a positive and productive educational experience for your child.

Today, I will help you understand how you can actively support your child’s academic journey with simple and effective strategies.

1. Show Interest and Support to Boost Your Child's Confidence

When parents show interest and support in their child’s education, it significantly boosts their self-confidence as they feel valued, and encourages a healthier, more optimistic outlook on their academic and personal lives

Try this:

• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of just asking ‘How was school today?’, say ‘What was the best part of your day?’. This encourages your child to share more and feel supported.
• Celebrate Achievements: Praise your child for their efforts and achievements, big or small. For example, say, ‘I’m really proud of how hard you worked on that project.’

2. Help with Homework to Enhance Your Child’s Coping Skills with Academic Challenges

Middle and high school students often face heavier homework loads - up to 2.5 hours per night. Regular parental involvement in homework helps children manage these academic pressures more effectively, improving their ability to cope with challenging assignments.

Try this:

• Set Up a Homework Routine: Create a consistent time and quiet space for your child to do their homework each day and be present to assist if needed.
• Review Assignments Together: Go over their homework with them and offer guidance or encouragement. You might say, ‘Let’s look at this math problem together and see how we can solve it.’

3. Engage Actively to Improve Your Child’s Behavior and Social Skills

Engaged parents can positively influence their child’s behavior and social skills. Studies show that active parental involvement reduces disobedience and aggression, while promoting better social abilities and stronger community relationships.

Try this:

• Attend School Events: Participate in parent-teacher meetings and school events to show your involvement and support for your child's education.
• Discuss Their Social Experiences: Talk with your child about their interactions with friends and offer advice on handling social situations. For instance, ‘How did you feel about the group project? Was there anything you found challenging?’

4. Participate in School Activities to Strengthen Your Child’s Relationships with Teachers

A positive attitude from parents towards teachers can enhance student-teacher relationships and overall academic performance. When parents participate in school activities and show support for educational goals, it reinforces the importance of education for their children.

Try this:

• Volunteer in the Classroom: Offer to help with classroom activities or school events, demonstrating that you value their education and teachers’ efforts.
• Communicate with Teachers: Regularly check in with teachers to stay updated on your child’s progress and express your support. You could say, ‘I appreciate the feedback you give. How can I better support my child at home?’.

5. Collaborate with Schools to Overcome Barriers to Your Child’s Academic Success

Parental involvement can be challenged by factors such as demanding work schedules or limited educational background. Addressing these barriers through collaboration between parents and schools helps ensure consistent support for students, facilitating better academic outcomes.

Try this:

• Discuss Challenges with School Staff: If you’re facing obstacles such as a demanding work schedule, talk to school staff about flexible solutions or support options.
• Seek Resources and Support: Look into school resources, such as tutoring or counseling services, and use them to support your child’s learning needs. For example, you can ask: ‘I noticed my child is struggling with reading. Are there any additional resources available at school?’

At the end, it’s normal to have hard days where life can feel overwhelming, especially for working parents. The key is to find balance and seek support when needed to ensure both you and your child thrive.

Resources:

1. To what Extent does Parents’ Involvement in Middle School Influence Children's Educational Progress? ( sciencedirectassets.com )
2. Parent-involvement-in-early-childhood-education.pdf ( researchgate.net )

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