The Southwest Voice

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As we approach midyear, the assumption can be made that students are doing their job, right? For some parents, that assumption is made once school supplies are purchased.  At this point, school becomes the responsibility of the student and teacher. In actuality, the role of parents in their child’s life becomes more important than ever throughout the school year — especially as the year unfolds and students become used to their routine.

Children learn by example and from behaviors modeled by the people they love and admire most. Parents share a bond with their children like no other, and from that bond exists a wonderful opportunity to nurture and inspire them. With this bond comes the responsibility of modeling behaviors that will encourage success in life.

By showing an interest in education, parents are demonstrating the attitude needed to succeed in school.

As the school year progresses, rather than telling your children they need to do their homework, ask them to show you what they worked on today.  Asking to see their homework shows an interest in what they are doing. By showing interest you will encourage them to be interested in their work as well, thus cultivating positive study habits that will lead to a successful school year and education. Showing how school can be fun is far more likely to lead to success rather than lecturing and expecting children to do their work on their own. Children need guidance from the people they love most in the world — their parents.

When adults least expect it, children are watching what is going on around them. They are very aware of their environment and what the adults in their lives are doing, their attitudes and beliefs. They see how hard you work to provide for them. Working hard to earn good grades as a child is like working hard to earn money as an adult. If you are willing to work hard with your children on their education, you will instill in them the skills need for success in life.

Other ways you can model good behavior is by staying in contact with teachers. Rather than calling or e-mailing teachers only when something negative happens, get in touch just to see how your child is doing in school. Not only will you give a teacher a chance to brag about a student, you will be showing your children you care about their education in a positive way. Remember, showing rather than telling is the key to success!

— Amy Luther is an eighth grade teacher at Stonecreek Junior High in the Panama Buena Vista Union School District.