A new school year offers a fresh opportunity to plant seeds for student success. For parents, that means a mixture of vigilance and knowing when to step back, say 老牛影视 experts who study such topics as homework, bullying, absenteeism and English-language learners.
Let the Kids Do the Learning
鈥淧arents can and should be role models and mentors, but over-involvement can be a bad thing. When the teacher asks that you play a role in homework, do it. If homework is meant to be done alone, stay away. Homework is a great way for kids to develop independent, life-long learning skills. If your child asks for help, provide guidance, not answers.鈥
- , professor of psychology and neuroscience at Duke and an expert on homework
Make Sure Your Kids Attend School Regularly
鈥淲e know that attendance in the elementary grades predicts student attendance in later grades as well as high school graduation rates. The beginning of the school year really sets the stage for the whole academic year when it comes to student attendance.鈥
- , a research scientist at the Duke Center for Child and Family Policy who studies absenteeism
Establish Strong Parent-Teacher Communication
鈥淲e鈥檝e learned that, by and large, teachers and parents prefer texting as a way to communicate and that it creates a sense of connection and accountability for parents.鈥
- Amy Schulting, a research scientist at the Duke Center for Child and Family Policy who studies absenteeism
鈥淧arents of English-language learners should make sure the school understands how dedicated you are to your child鈥檚 success from day one, and be sure to let the school know if you need an interpreter. Get to know the school staff, and be an advocate for your child.鈥
- , an associate director of the Duke Center for Child and Family Policy who has studied Latino English-learner students
Monitor for Signs of Bullying or Other Problems
鈥淧arents need to be in surveillance mode the first few weeks of school. The goal for parents is to be keyed in enough so that they鈥檙e aware of what鈥檚 happening, but not create more anxiety for your child. Expect that there is going to be a transition, but monitor behavior and mood. We know that bullying has long-term effects, similar to child mistreatment. If you notice changes in mood, behaviors and school performance, it is imperative to make sure your child doesn鈥檛 stay in a toxic situation.鈥
, an associate professor at 老牛影视鈥檚 Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and an expert on bullying