Ways to Support Your Child At Home

Students achieve more in school when parents/caregivers are involved in their academic lives. If your child has exceptional learning, emotional or behavioral needs, set up meetings with your school or teachers to ensure an open line of communication is established.

Homework Tips:

As your child progresses through school, homework will get more intense. An important way to help is to make sure your child has a quiet, well-lit, distraction-free place to study that's stocked with supplies. Distraction-free means no cell phone, TV or websites other than homework-related resources. Be sure to check in from time to time to make sure that your child hasn't gotten distracted.

Sit down with your child regularly to talk about class loads and make sure they're balanced. It's also a good idea to set specific start times for homework each night. Helping establish a homework schedule sends a message that academics are a priority.

Encourage your child to ask for help when it's needed. 

Bedtime Routines:

All children need the right amount of sleep to be alert and ready to learn all day. In general,  children, including preteens and teens, need about 9-10 hours of sleep each night.

Homework, sports, after-school activities, texting, TVs, computers, and video games, as well as hectic family schedules, can contribute to students not getting enough sleep.  Lack of sleep can make it difficult to pay attention in school. It's important to have a consistent bedtime routine, especially on school nights.  Don't be afraid to take away the cell phones!

Talk About School:

Staying connected with your child as they grow more independent can be a challenge, but it's more important than ever. While activities at school, new interests, and expanding social circles can become more central as your child matures, parents and guardians are still the anchors for providing the essential love, guidance, and support.

Make efforts to talk with your child every day, so he or she knows that what goes on at school is important to you. When your child knows that you are interested in their academic lives, they'll take school seriously as well.