I came across a paper that was provided by the Oregon Education Association as I was cleaning out a box from long ago. I had it from when my children were in school. Doing some of these opened conversations up with my children that helped to guide them... and me... in our relationship. These also will help to increase your relationship with them as well, while helping them with their schooling. You see, kids go through a lot! We may not see it and may say, "What could they be going through, they are kids and have no bills or responsibilities." However, I repeat... Kids Go Through A Lot! They are going through growing pains... sometimes literally. They are struggling to fit in. They are trying to see what kind of person they want to be. They are learning about God and what is right and wrong. They are trying to do well at school and fulfill all of those responsibilities that eventually will get them into a good college... hopefully with scholarship. They are trying to fulfill the responsibilities at home and don't forget about the responsibilities with their friends. They are pulled in many directions and sometimes feel like they are being pulled apart and just don't know what to do or what choice to make. Sometimes, they know what choice to make, but it is not one that would be a comfortable decision for them. because of the repercussions of that decision. They struggle, just as you do, but just in their own ways.
Well, as parents and educators, we need to be to help them in their struggle. To help them to find the solutions to their every day problems. They need encouragement and self-esteem. They need to know that you are not trying to possess, control, and obsess, but that you care and respect them. Yes, respect them! They are God's creation as well. They deserve respect as much as you do. Besides, if you are not showing them respect and being that example, how will they learn to respect. They need to know that they have your support and that you love them know matter what. So, here is the list from A to Z in how to help your child/student with successful schooling.
Ask
your child about the school day.
Begin
your child's day with a nourishing breakfast.
Congratulate
your child for doing well.
Discuss
homework with your child.
Encourage
your child to read.
Find
a quiet place for your child to study.
Give
your child responsibility.
Help
your child build self-esteem.
Include
your child in making simple family decisions.
Join
a library and read with your child.
Keep
your child on a schedule that includes exercise and sleep.
Limit
television by selecting programs with your child. (Limit other
digital/computerized items too)
Make
the time you spend with your child special. (You have to actually
spend time with the child)
Notice
and discuss changes in your child's behavior.
Offer
to help your child organize school papers.
Provide
your child with good role models. (You must be the 1st
good role model)
Question
the activities your child shares with friends.
Respect
your children's right to have their own opinions.
Share
an interest or hobby with your child.
Take
time to listen to your child.
Urge
your child to say “NO” to drugs, alcohol, and smoking.
Visit
places of interest with your child.
Work
with your child to set up rules of behavior.
Xerox
and save records or articles that benefit your child. (Read over
them together/answer questions.)
Yield
results by encouraging your child to do better.
Zip
through these activities on a regular basis.
I hope you utilize some of this in your every day living to change your state of mind, as well as your children's and/or students. I hope that you reap a great harvest that is fruitful & blessed so that you may be Living Victoriously!
LIVE ON PURPOSE!
