Weekly Tips on Improving Academics

Stay involved! Your interest adds value to your student’s education!
o Dialog about school & learn details about each class
o Encourage your student to ask questions when they don’t understand
o Attend school events & encourage student involvement

Make academics the 1st priority!
o Expect homework to be finished before free time is allowed
o TV, cell phones, I-Pods, & computers are all earned privileges!

Provide an effective study area
o Eliminate common distractions to study: Noise (from music, TV, family activity, traffic, friends, & pets) / Visitors / Poor
lighting / Poor air circulation
o Keep organized w/study materials handy: (paper, pencils, dictionary, thesaurus)

 

Schedule your student’s study time & establish purposeful work habits
o Set expectations; be consistent; require work completed
o Same time every day! (Homework finished? Review notes, check work; READ)

Students learn by modeling - set the best example
o Be a good listener: focus on the speaker, keep still, pay attention, don’t interrupt
o Ask questions to understand or learn more; restate what you heard to confirm
o Read for enjoyment / Involve your student with your interests, skills & hobbies

Place the TV & computer in public areas in your home
o Control the content - reject violent or “suggestive” programs
o Control the amount - don't allow students to waste excessive time in front of "the idiot box"

Assign chores & responsibilities to complement school expectations
o Help your student build character, self-discipline, and confidence
o Challenge them to improve skills at problem solving & decision making

Acknowledge all forms of success!
o Recognize & praise all positive behaviors at home and school
o The best gift to give your student is your time & attention!