Here are six strategies that parents can utilize to improve school performance for their children, supported by research:
- Establish a daily routine and encourage good sleep habits: According to a study published in the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, a consistent daily routine and adequate sleep are essential for children’s academic success. Parents can establish a regular routine for waking up, eating meals, and going to bed, and ensure their children get enough sleep each night. This can help children stay focused and perform better in school. (source: MindShift)
- Encourage a love of reading: Reading for pleasure has been shown to improve academic performance and literacy skills in children. Parents can encourage their children to read by providing access to books and reading materials, modeling reading behavior, and reading together as a family. A study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that children who have parents who regularly read to them have better language and literacy skills. (source: Scholastic)
- Set high expectations and provide support: According to research from the National Education Association, parental expectations and support are important factors in student achievement. Parents can set high expectations for their children’s academic performance and provide support by offering help with homework and studying, staying in touch with teachers, and providing a positive learning environment at home. (source: National Education Association)
- Limit screen time: Excessive screen time has been linked to a range of negative outcomes, including poor academic performance. Parents can limit their children’s screen time and encourage them to engage in other activities, such as reading, playing outside, or pursuing hobbies. A study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that children who spend more time watching television have lower academic performance than those who spend less time watching television. (source: American Academy of Pediatrics)
- Build a partnership with the school: Collaborating with teachers and administrators can help parents stay informed about their children’s progress and provide opportunities for support and involvement in the school community. Parents can attend parent-teacher conferences, volunteer in the classroom or school, and participate in school events. Research from the National PTA shows that parental involvement in schools is associated with higher academic achievement and improved behavior in children. (source: National PTA)
- Foster a growth mindset: According to research from Stanford University, a growth mindset – the belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort and hard work – is associated with greater academic achievement. Parents can help foster a growth mindset in their children by praising effort and persistence rather than innate ability, and encouraging them to embrace challenges and learn from mistakes. (source: Mindset Works)
Overall, parents can play an important role in supporting their children’s academic success by establishing routines, encouraging reading, setting high expectations and providing support, limiting screen time, building partnerships with schools, and fostering a growth mindset.
