Good Communication Helps Children Succeed In School

Children spend one-half of their waking hours in school or school-related activities. Studies show that children whose parents are involved in their education do better in school than children whose parents are uninvolved.

One of the best things you can do to become more active in your child's academic life is to communicate with your child's school. You can do that very easily by:

* Talking to teachers and staff when things are going well for your child. Offer compliments to teachers during conversations or through notes and phone calls.
* Addressing problems as they arise. Share your concerns immediately, while the issue is still small and manageable. Ask how things are going, and find out what you can do to improve the situation.
* Arming yourself with questions you want answered. Be prepared, especially if you will be attending a school activity that includes your child's teachers.
* Volunteering your time. Join the local PTA, or find other ways to be part of your child's world.