Parents play a critical role in shaping the character of their children when they grow into adults. During the COVID-19 timeframe, parents now have the opportunities to be involved in their children’s lives more than before.
Due to the closure of schools, parents have had to take on the position of both parent and teacher. Many parents may feel as if their children have invaded their space at this time, and we’re all trying to find out how to strike a balance between working from home and ensuring that our children remain on track with their studies. We’re all adjusting to a new schedule. As insane as it might sound, it’s important that our children feel comfortable in their academics, as this is a new change for them as well.
So, what can parents do to help their children’s education during this period and even after schools reopen? Here are a few factors to think about:
Communicate with the teachers
Every parent should develop a habit of communicating with the teachers of their children regularly. With the implementation of remote learning, it has become much easier for families to communicate with teachers one-on-one through their work emails or phone numbers. Follow up on your child’s progress during this period by scheduling a virtual meeting with the teacher. This not only shows the teacher that you appreciate what they’re doing and that you’re committed to helping your child succeed, but it also shows your child that you care.
Keep track of their academic performance
Parents have a much better understanding of what their children are learning in class now as they now learn from home. Set aside some time to discuss the lessons or tasks that have been assigned. It is also an excellent time to look through their academic papers with them and ask them questions about their results in places where they need help.
If parents are using Oryx Learning or other learning tools, they can easily monitor their children’s academic progress by using powerful learning analytics. These tools are designed to effectively track progress, strengths, weaknesses, areas of interest, and bottlenecks in real-time. Programs such as Oryx learning include reports that are designed to encourage the students to do more and provides valuable insights to overcome weaknesses.
Acknowledge positive results
Students who perform well can continue to do so if they are appreciated regularly. Any time their children bring home improved grades, parents should devise a way to encourage them. This will motivate them to work harder at all times and to uphold high standards.
Pay attention to their interests and wishes and offer assistance when needed
Trying to train your children with an iron fist may work when they are young, but it may be a challenging way to take once they reach adolescence. Parents should be available to their children and show that they are committed to helping them in every way they can. Create ways for them to voice their opinions and see if they can be of assistance. Children who are treated with respect by adults grow up to be considerate and accepting of others.
Tell your children about your own school stories
Parents should make time to communicate with their children and hear about their positive and negative interactions during their school years. They should feel free to share their triumphs as students and the negative experiences that transformed them into today’s individuals. Such stories make children feel at ease with their parents, and they will no longer regard them as superhumans who live flawless lives free of mistakes. As a result, the child would be more willing to open up and discuss any academic difficulties they face.
Accept failures
“I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” – Thomas Edison.
The best way to succeed in life, according to successful people, is not to be afraid of failure. Normalizing failure and making it a part of daily life provides a healthy environment for students to be creative and take risks. Parents who empower their children to try new things without fear of repercussions actively have a greater chance of raising innovative and independent thinkers as adults.
