Parents Don't have to be Math or Science Experts...

As a parent, you know that homework can sometimes pose real difficulties for your children. But you don’t have to be an expert in math or science to help your child be successful with homework. Your caring and attention can go a long way. By getting involved with your child’s homework, communication between you and the school improves. You learn more about what is expected of your child in school. And you get a firsthand idea of what students are learning and how well your child is doing. Research shows that if a child is having difficulty with homework, parents should pay close attention. Talk to your child’s teachers to find out what you can do to help.

12 Tips for Getting More Involved in your Children's Education

  1. Take your child to school on the first day.

  2. Let your child know that school is important. Be sure to ask questions about homework, and set up a quiet place for your child to work.

  3. Read everything that is sent home from school—report cards, homework assignments, school lunch plans, and vacation and bus schedules. Show your child that you are well informed.

  4. Get to know your child’s teachers and school principal by attending school meetings and parent-teacher conferences.

  5. Ask for copies of school policies (e.g., attendance, discipline, homework). Ask questions if there something you do not understand.

  6. Volunteer to help out with school activities. Attend sports events, help out with fundraisers, or volunteer to work in the school office.

  7. Visit your child’s classroom when class is in session, not just at parent-teacher conferences. Set this up in advance with the school office and the teacher.

  8. Talk to other parents. If there is a parent organization, join it. If there is no parent organization at your school, think about starting one. Finding two or three other interested parents is a good start.

  9. Encourage your child to read at home. Visit local libraries or use book mobiles, school libraries, or book fairs and pick out books together. Choose books for each other to read.

  10. Being involved in a child’s education is just as important for stepparents, grandparents, and other adults who care for a child. Invite them to participate in home and school learning opportunities.

  11. Get involved in school funding, planning and improvement  efforts through school improvement teams or school board participation.

  12. Your actions, not just your words, make an impression that could last a lifetime.

Adapted from U.S. Department of Education, Office of Communications and Outreach, Empowering Parents School Box: Taking a Closer Look, and 100 Tips for Parents, Washington, D.C., 2007.