Luna, N. 2009, How Can I Help My Child Succeed in School?, Extension | University of Nevada, Reno, FS-09-21

Parents are an important component to academic success:

  • Students report that parents have the most influence over their goals.
  • Parental support and student academic success are strongly related.
  • Dropping out of high school will significantly limit your child’s work options.
  • People who leave high school before graduating are more likely to be unemployed, work in very tiring jobs and work in jobs that pay very little money.
  • People who leave high school before graduating are more likely to be in jail and seek government help for things such as health care, housing and food.
  • Finishing high school brings your child increased self-respect and the ability to help others and your family.

Students studying

What can you do?

  • Encourage your child to read. Studies confirm that reading at home is a strong indicator for academic success.
  • Model healthy habits, such as eating healthy, physical exercise and a stable sleep routine.
  • Supervise homework, television viewing and computer use. It is important to have a regular space where your child does his or her homework. Set limits on afterschool activities, such as television viewing or video games.
  • Have frequent conversations about school, family and his/her future with your child.
  • Remember to praise and provide encouraging words, especially during difficult times.
  • Ensure your child attends school daily and on time.

Working with teachers and schools:

  • Learn as much as possible about your child’s school.
  • Ask for a school handbook and read it over.
  • Know your child's academic calendar and test dates.
  • Ask your child’s teacher about expectations. It is important to talk to your child’s teachers early and often to identify strengths and areas of improvement.
  • Stay involved in your child’s school activities.
  • Ask for information in your native language.
  • Learn to use Parent link: ParentLink

Students talking

For additional suggestions on helping your child succeed in school, visit:

Students graduating

Learn more about the author(s)

 

Also of Interest:

 
Infant Language Development
From the moment babies are born, they are learning how to communicate. Babies first communicate by crying and then begin to coo and babble. Infants’ speech develops as they are exposed to sounds and language, spoken and unspoken. Gestures, facial expressions and sounds are all pa...
Byington, T. and Kim, Y. 2015, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, FS-15-06
Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS)
This fact sheet explains what Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is and serval ways to prevent it.
Kock, Jo. 2007, Extension | University of Nevada, Reno, FS-07-49
Developmental Milestones for Toddlers
This fact sheet explains the many things toddlers can do from 12 to 36 months.
Kock, J. 2006, Extension | University of Nevada, Reno, FS-06-78
Coping With Crying Babies
This fact sheet explains ways to treat crying babies by proving helpful ways to cope with crying babies and how to do it.
Sigman-Grant, M. and Tang, M. 2004, Extension | University of Nevada, Reno, FS-04-01
You And Your Baby: The Nurturing Team…
This fact sheet contains extensive information on nurturing a baby from the early months (12-24). Learn more about foods and facts that will help benefit your toddler years.
Sigman-Grant. M. 2002, Extension | University of Nevada, Reno, FS-02-14