All children have the power to succeed in school and in life. Parents, family members, and caregivers can help guide their children to achieve success on their own. The question is, how can we help our children succeed?
We know that children tend to adopt the same behaviors they see in their parents. What parents say and do in their daily lives can help their children develop positive attitudes toward school and learning as well as building their self-confidence. Parents who value education and demonstrate it on a daily basis are great role models to their children as they are contributing to their children’s success in life.

Here are three ways to help guide your children to success;

Instill a love of reading.

Teaching your children to read is not enough. You have to teach them to appreciate and love reading as an activity. The importance of reading can’t be emphasized enough. Reading helps children in all school subjects, and more importantly, it is the key to lifelong learning.

Kumon’s Recommended Reading List has a wide range of genres for all different reading levels.

Teach effective study skills.

Effective studay skills are absolutely essential to getting good grades. Make sure your children know how to analyze text, prepare for tests, think critically, memorize facts, and use their time efficiently. Encourage them to study daily at the same time and provide a study space that is free of distractions.

When your children begin their Kumon journey, positive work skills, such as good posture, strong awareness of time, and perseverance, are developed.

Model active learning.

Children need active learning experiences as well as quiet learning times such as reading and doing homework. Active learning involves asking and answering questions, solving problems and exploring interests. Active learning can also take place when your child plays sports, performs in school plays, spends time with friends, plays a musical instrument, or visits museums.

To promote active learning, listen to your child’s ideas and respond to them. Let him ask questions and state opinions when you read books together. When you encourage this type of give-and-take at home, your children’s participation and interest in school is likely to increase.

As a parent or guardian, you are your children’s best advocate to ensure that they reach their full potential. Support and encourage your children to try their best. If you provide your children with the necessary tools to succeed, they will excel in school and in life.

To learn more about Kumon, the world’s largest after-school math and reading program, call 800-ABC-MATH or visit www.kumon.ca.