The involvement of parents in their child’s education can be hugely impactful. Whether it’s praising that first finger-painting or helping to hurdle a particularly tricky maths problem, parental engagement can make all the difference to a child’s educational journey.
We know that, as parents, it’s our job to guide our little learners. We always want what’s best for our kids, especially when it comes to education! It’s important then that we understand just how important the involvement of parents can be.
The benefits of parental participation in education
Let’s explore exactly how the involvement of parents can benefit children’s education.
Boosted academic performance:
When a child is supported at home, they often excel academically. This isn’t just about helping with homework but showing genuine interest in the subjects they are studying. When parents express their interest they are demonstrating to the child that their learning has value and can be a shared point of interest between them.
Enhanced motivation:
When kids see that their parents are invested in their education, they're more likely to be motivated. It’s the classic: “If it’s important to Mum and Dad, it's important to me” mentality.
Better behaviour and attitude:
Parental participation in education often leads to improved behaviour in school and a more positive attitude towards learning. Kids will concentrate better — and make a concerted effort to retain information — if they know that their parents are excited to discuss the subject further at home.
We know that parental involvement in education is essential for children’s overall learning progress. So exactly how can parents get involved with their child’s education?
Nobody wants to feel that they’re being an overbearing educational intruder! Equally, we don’t want to feel alienated from our child’s learning and development. Try these practical steps to integrate your involvement into your child’s education.
Practical steps to integrate parental participation in education
1. Establish a daily routine
Having a consistent routine provides children with a sense of security and helps them understand expectations. Start by setting specific times for meals, homework, play, and bedtime. This doesn’t mean every minute should be scheduled — rather, it's about creating a rhythm that children can anticipate. For instance, designate a quiet period after dinner for homework or reading. This not only aids their academic growth but also helps wind down before bedtime.
2. Create a productive study space
Every child needs an environment that’s conducive to learning. This doesn't necessarily require a separate room — it can be a quiet corner dedicated to study. Ensure it's free from distractions like the TV, tablet, or excessive noise. Stock it with necessary supplies like pencils, paper, and books. You could even personalise this area with them! Choose a glowy desk lamp or decorate the space with their artwork. This instils a sense of ownership and may make them more inclined to use the space for further study.
3. Engage in their homework (but don't do it for them!)
It's one thing to help your child understand their homework, and another thing to do it for them. Be available for questions and guidance but resist the urge to take over. Instead, prompt them with questions like, "What do you think the next step is?" or, "How can you approach this problem differently?" This encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills, empowering them to tackle challenges on their own.
4. Promote reading for pleasure
Foster a love for reading by making books readily available in your home. Create a mini-library or reading nook. Rotate books regularly to provide variety and keep their interest piqued. Consider setting aside a ‘reading hour’ where everyone in the house picks up a book. Not only does this promote literacy, but it also becomes a shared family activity that you can all look forward to.
5. Communicate with educators regularly
Open lines of communication with your child's teacher. This isn’t just for when there's an issue but also to understand your child's progress, strengths, and areas that might need additional support. Regular feedback can give insights that might not be evident at home. Moreover, educators can offer specific strategies or resources tailored to your child’s needs.
6. Incorporate learning into everyday activities
Education doesn’t have to be confined to the classroom or homework. Turn everyday activities into learning opportunities. Cooking can be a lesson in measurements and chemistry, shopping can become a practical maths lesson. Even a stroll in the park can transform into a biology class, as you discuss the plants and animals you see.
7. Celebrate achievements, big and small
Recognising and celebrating your child's achievements can really boost their confidence, whether it's mastering a maths equation or winning a school competition. It’s not about lavish rewards but genuine praise and acknowledgement. A simple "Well done!" or a high-five can make them feel valued and motivated.
How arts and crafts aid parental participation in education
Arts and crafts provide the perfect, hands-on way for parents to participate in their child’s education. Crafting together allows parents to guide their child’s learning journey as they build, experiment, and create!
Problem-solving:
Crafting enhances creativity and problem-solving skills. Children must consider new ways to approach a problem, whether it’s finding the right material or slotting together the right shapes. These problem-solving skills are then transferable to a range of subjects and scenarios, whether it’s solving that extra-tricky equation or writing the perfect ending to a story.
Improving fine motor skills:
Activities like cutting, pasting, and painting all contribute to motor skill development. These are essential for handwriting and tying shoelaces!
Bonding time:
Crafting is not just about the final product. It's about the memories made, the laughter shared, and the lessons learned. Crafting together further demonstrates to your child that you are interested in their learning and value their unique perspective.
Incorporating learning:
Integrating subjects into your craft projects can make them even more exciting. Learning about the solar system? Let’s create a planet poster! Discovering animal habitats? A snapping crocodile puppet can teach you all about that!
Wrapping it up
The involvement of parents in their children's education is key to their learning journey. While it might not always (if ever!) be easy to juggle work, home life, and school commitments, even the smallest gesture can make the world of difference. So, get involved, demonstrate your engagement, and remember to have fun along the way!
Are you a parent? Roll up your sleeves and get engaged in your child’s education! Get crafting with your little one to learn and grow together! 🌟📚🎨
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Curated by Jéssica Dorantes
Content Strategist and Editor
Graduated in Literature and Languages and specialised in Editorial Production, with a Linguistics Masters and Product Marketing Management certification. More than 5 years of experience working with educational content, three of them aimed specifically at children and families.
