Having kids who excel in school is not always solely based on the children. Positive parental involvement in education has the power to keep your kids on track while also setting them up for success. With back-to-school season approaching, it’s important as parents to be aware of the role you should play in your child’s education.
Parental Involvement in Education
According to research from the National Coalition for Parental Involvement in Education, “the most accurate predictors of student achievement in school are not from family income or social status, but the extent to which the family becomes involved in their child’s education at school.”
If you’ve noticed your child struggling in school, boosting parental involvement could make all the difference. At HealthPark Pediatrics, we strive to provide guidance beyond your children’s health and well-being. Learn more about the different types of positive parental involvement and its overall importance on their education.
Types of Positive Parental Involvement
Many studies have shown that having a family’s engagement has a direct positive impact on a child’s learning success. Being involved doesn’t just mean helping them with their homework or getting them to the bus stop on time. There are many different ways to demonstrate positive parental involvement in education, including the following:
- Creating a positive attitude toward school
It may sound simple, but a positive attitude can make a huge difference in how your child approaches education. Your child’s outlook on education starts with how it is framed within the home. Younger students, especially those just beginning school, will look to their parents to form opinions.
Many parents initially take a stern and strict approach with children already developing a negative attitude towards school. However, staying positive while you help them with their work can alleviate any pressure they feel to avoid potential failure. Failure is inevitable as your children grow, especially throughout their education, so it’s important to showcase positive support no matter the outcome.
- Implement what they learn at school in the home
If you’re involved in your child’s homework or projects, it’s easier for you to incorporate what they’re learning into the home. It doesn’t necessarily mean you need to provide additional learning or problem-solving for your children outside of school, but expressing an interest in their school topics can help reinforce a positive attitude towards education.
A longtime pre-school teacher, Mary O’Keefe, suggests that parents ask more specific questions like “What do you like and dislike about school?” or “What subjects are easy or hard?” instead of the typical “How was your day?”. In doing so, you’ll better understand where they are succeeding or where they need more support. In accordance, you can then suggest educational activities to do together. You can create a family book club, watch a documentary, or even visit a museum of their peaked interests.
- Being present at their school
Being physically present at their school is one of the best ways to display positive parental involvement in education. Taking time out of your busy schedules to volunteer at school events, attend parent night, donate materials or supplies, etc., will show your child that you care about their education as much as they do. Also, parental involvement opens the door to creating relationships with educators and the school community.
The Importance of Positive Parental Involvement
There are several reasons why positive parental involvement in education is important, including the following listed below:
- Increased attendance
Research shows a direct link between parental involvement and a child’s school attendance. This study found that as involvement increased, the student’s absenteeism decreased.
- Higher grades & test scores
Positive parental involvement is also connected to an increase in student achievement. Studies have shown a strong correlation between family involvement and improved grades as well as overall GPA.
- Increased likelihood of taking healthy risks
When children have the support of their parents, they feel a new form of confidence to take risks safely. It’s important to find a balance of instilling the importance of education without making it a high-pressure environment for your child. You want to support them to the point where they still have the freedom to try new things without fearing failure or reprimanding for doing so.
- Taking an interest in their schoolwork holds them accountable
Without hovering or becoming a “helicopter parent,” knowing what’s going on in your child’s school life will ultimately keep them accountable. Especially as their schedules get busier, you can help them juggle their workload, so they don’t overwork or fall behind.
- Creates a positive relationship with education
Ultimately, all parents should want their children to associate with school and education positively. Their education will potentially set them up for their career path, so it should be enjoyable along the way. Creating an environment that uplifts education can increase your child’s motivation to succeed with their studies.
If you’re looking for additional resources on how to get involved in your child’s education, contact any of our providers at HealthPark Pediatrics.
