“Education is an ongoing progress.”

Learning shouldn’t stop when the school bell rings. It’s vital for parents to play an active role in their kids’ educational development too by encouraging them to read, write, be creative, and express themselves.

“Encourage your child to ask questions.”

Too many kids feel shy, nervous, or even afraid of talking to teachers, but the vast majority are happy to hear questions, comments, or requests for extra help. Encourage your kids to take the initiative and speak with their teachers. It can pay off in a big way.

“The number one thing parents can do to help their child succeed in school is to read to them.” F

rom an early age and even as they get a bit older, reading to your kids can be so beneficial for their education, imagination, and general interest in life, as well as helping them learn lots of new words and expand their vocabulary.

“Advocate for teachers.”

Teachers spend every day trying to help kids and make a difference in their lives. They deserve some respect and support for that, so if you have a chance to advocate for teachers and help them get better working conditions, please do so.

“Lack of sleep affects so many things.”

Especially for parents of little kids, bedtime routines are so important. Get your kids into a rhythm in terms of when they go to bed and ensure they get plenty of rest each night to be energetic and ready to learn the next day.

“The earlier it begins, the better the results will be.”

The earlier you start engaging with your kids, asking them about their homework, encouraging them to talk about what they’ve been learning at school, and helping them retain the knowledge and understanding imparted by their teachers, the better they’ll become at not only learning new things, but applying that knowledge and sharing it.

“Provide an appropriate learning environment at home.”

It’s vital for parents to understand how their kids like to learn and create a positive atmosphere at home. Some kids like to study in silence, for example, so you should make efforts to keep quiet when they’re doing homework.

“Push yourself to help them even when the material may be tough.”

Did you hate math as a kid? Well, that’s no excuse to avoid helping your kid with their math homework. If you help them with some subjects but avoid others because you don’t like them, your kids will have the same issues as you with those subjects.

“Teachers are easy to please.”

If you appreciate the hard work of a teacher or hear lots of compliments about one particular teacher from your kids, why not consider getting them a little gift? Cards and presents can really put a big smile on any teacher’s face and make them feel valued.

“Be prepared.”

Yes, it’s a classic saying of the Boy Scouts, but it’s also a vital lesson for life in general. Preparation can be key to pretty much everything in life, and teaching your kids to be prepared can help them in so many ways.

“Eight hours of school, eight hours at home, and eight hours of sleep.”

You can break the typical child’s day down into this format. They spend roughly the same amount of time awake at home as they do at school, and it’s up to you to use those hours wisely. Your kids’ teachers will do the best they can to make the eight hours of school informative and educational, but all of their hard work can be lost if the kid spends the other eight hours playing games or watching TV.

“Expressing enthusiasm will only help your child.”

If you show excitement and enthusiasm for your child when starting a new year of school or preparing for a big test, they’ll be more likely to feel positive about it too.

“Avoid talking negatively about school.”

Teachers know that most kids don’t really like school, but it doesn’t help to have parents who complain about it too. If you’re negative about education, your kids will feel the same way. Instead, tell them about how important it is, how it can help them get a good job, how it can improve their lives in so many ways, etc.

“All they really want and need is you.”

The one thing that matters most to kids is love from their parents. Spending time with your kids is the most important thing of all when it comes to developing bonds with them, understanding their needs, and making them feel loved and cared for.

“I promise the teacher isn’t trying to be difficult.”

If you read a supply list and see certain very specific items on it, don’t get mad. The teacher isn’t trying to waste your money, it’s just that they’ve been in the business many years and know which brands tend to be the best in order to provide top quality equipment for your kids.

“We spend a great deal of our own money on supplies.”

A lot of teachers pay out of their own pocket for supplies and other items to improve the learning environment for their students. They always appreciate when parents understand this and make a little contribution like buying some pens, paper, or other little items.

“Parents need to go to parent-teacher conferences.”

These events are held for your benefit, but too often, parents fail to turn up for these conferences and meetings, missing out on vital information that could help themselves and their kids.

“Keep your kids aware of current events.”

Even though many of us wish we could switch off the news from time to time, it can be a great way to engage with your kids and help them see the relevance of the things they learn at school.

“We’re not all perfect.”

Not everyone can be amazing at their job, and this rule applies in the world of teaching too, but don’t let the mistakes of one or two bad teachers ruin your impression (or your child’s impression) of the others.

“It’s okay to cry.”

Here’s one for all the parents of young children. On the first day of school, it’s easy to get emotional, but try to avoid crying in front of your kids as this will only make things harder for them, you, and the teacher!

“It’s all about balance.”

We all want to be there for our little ones, but you don’t want to smother them. Find the right balance between being with them, protecting them, and letting them try new things and make mistakes from time to time.

“Remember that teachers see your children in a totally different environment.”

You see your kids in a comfortable and familiar home environment, and you think you know exactly who they are and how they behave. But teachers see them in a totally different setting, and it’s not uncommon for kids to behave very differently at school than at home. So if a teacher says that your child is acting out or behaving badly, you should believe them and try to solve the issue, rather than lashing out.

“Parents need to be sensitive to their young adults.”

The teenage years can be tricky to negotiate, but the key is to respect that your kids are going through some changes and naturally want to feel more independent. They still need you to be there for them, but you also need to respect their privacy and let them come to you with questions or concerns, rather than smothering them.

“Have a conversation about their education.”

When picking your kids up from school or welcoming them home after a long day, one of the first questions every parent should ask is “What did you learn today?” It’s a great way for the child to share their experiences with you and also to show you’re interested in their education.

“Label everything.”

Here’s a bit of practical advice! Put labels on absolutely everything, especially if you have young children. It makes things so much easier if ever anything gets lost or misplaced.

“Never make love something to be earned.”

Love is something that every parent should feel for their child and happily express to them. It’s not a bargaining tool, a reward, or something that should ever need to be earned. It’s unconditional, and kids need to know that you love them no matter what, in the good times and the bad.

“Introduce a new routine.”

Before school even starts, sit down with your kids and agree on a routine, covering everything from when they wake up to when they do their homework and how much screen time they get each day. An organized child is a happy child.

“Go direct to the teacher.”

If you have an issue with a grade your kid got on a test or a problem with something in the classroom, speak to the teacher first. They’re often very willing to listen and help out, and it’s always better to speak with them initially and try to solve issues amicably rather than rushing to the supervisor.

“You’re the role model.”

Your kids look up to you and often copy your behavior, so try to set a good example. Read books, show an interest in learning, and be a good person to those around you. It’s much better to show your kids a positive image rather than an example of someone lazy or uninterested in the world.

“Work on you, not them.”

One of the best ways to help your kids is to focus on improving your own life. Don’t forget that you’re a role model for your kids, and anything negatively affecting you will negatively affect them too.

“Everything we do, we do for your kids.”

If a teacher brings you in or calls you up to talk about your child, be sure to show them the respect they deserve. They’re a fellow person, doing a tough job and trying to do their best for your kids.

“Dress them for the weather.”

You might not pay too much attention to your kids’ clothes when they’re going to school, but the things they wear can make a real difference to their day-to-day enjoyment.

“Have some school practice during the holidays.”

To get your kids in the mood for school before the year officially starts, spend some time in the holidays reading, writing, or doing some fun learning activities. Don’t make it too taxing or boring, though.

“Make sure your child comes to school on time.”

Kids that always get dropped off late will start to think that this is normal behavior, and they could pay the price for that bad habit in future if they start arriving late in college or at work.

“Teachers can’t be expected to remember everything you tell them.”

Teachers have countless kids to think about and dozens of classes to prepare each week. If you want to tell them something specific about your child, it makes a lot more sense and is easier for everyone if you put it in writing, rather than simply telling them or calling them.

“Aim for a ‘screen door’ relationship.”

Relationships can be broken down into three categories: solid door, screen door, and open door. Solid door relationships have no openness, meaning that kids feel scared and distant from their parents. Open door relationships are totally open, and the kids feel like their parents are their friends, rather than authority figures or protectors. A screen door relationship is the perfect balance between the two.

“Please limit screen time and take your kids outside or engage with them in a board game.”

Many teachers report that the young kids they teach talk about nothing but video games and YouTube. Kids need more stimulation than simple screens, so be sure to spend some time doing puzzles, playing board games, and getting out in nature to help them learn new skills and become better-rounded people.

“Do your job as parents and we will do ours as teachers.”

While there are a few bad eggs out there, the vast majority of teachers enjoy their jobs and go to work each day because they want to help educate young minds, inspire the next generation, and help kids reach their potential. Believe in them to do their job and focus on doing your part too, and together, there’s no limit to what you can help your kids accomplish.

“When kids know they cannot get out of something, they will be more likely to do it.”

If your kids tend to ‘forget’ their homework, start setting an alarm. It’s tough, but fair, and will help them get in a proper routine.

“Please don’t judge me if we meet at the grocery store and I forget your child’s name.”

Teachers spend hours every single day teaching many different kids, repeating the process again and again all year long. They have a lot to do and a lot ot think about, so cut them a little slack if they make a mistake or forget something that seems simple now and then.

“Many teachers are parents as well.”

Many people judge teachers too harshly, but a lot of them are parents or aunts or uncles or even grandparents. They have children in their own families to love and look after, and they know exactly what you’re going through.

“Don’t try to get kids out of detention.”

While it might be tempting to try and ‘be the hero’ to get your kids out of detention or a trip to the principal’s office, they won’t learn anything good if their parents are always there to get them out of trouble. They need to know that bad behavior has consequences.

“Great values can be instilled in any economic setting.”

Rich families can have dysfunctional lifestyles, and poor families can have totally happy and well-adjusted kids. And vice versa. In short, money really doesn’t matter when it comes to raising a kid right and helping your little ones feel safe, happy, and fulfilled.

“Just show up.”

Most schools have all kinds of events throughout the year. From band recitals to sports games, these events let the kids enjoy all kinds of activities, and it can be such a powerful form of positive reinforcement for a kid to look out in the crowd and see their parents smiling back.

“Implement a consistent homework routine.”

This is a great way to help your kids learn the importance of organization and ensure that their work is always done on time.

“Create a college-going culture.”

Of course, you shouldn’t make your kids feel forced into anything or make them feel like a failure if they don’t make it to Harvard. But by creating a positive, winning atmosphere around the home and making them believe that they’ll go to college someday, they’ll usually feel more confident and ready to aim high.

“Learning is a two-way journey.”

Too many kids see education as a chore, but if you can help them see it as more of a positive experience, they can get so much more out of it. Through reading and at-home learning activities, you can show kids from an early age that learning is fun and exciting with the right approach.

“Spend a day somewhere educational.”

Visiting places like museums and galleries is a wonderful way to help kids of all ages learn new things. And you might even learn a few things yourself.

“Don’t send your child to school when they are sick.”

They won’t learn anything. Other kids will get ill. And the teachers and other faculty members will be at risk too. It’s a lose-lose for everyone.

“Accept the truth of who they are.”

Even if you don’t quite ‘get’ your kids, you should do all you can to embrace who they are and accept their decisions. Many parents tend to have dreams and expectations of their kids, but you have to accept that they have their own plans and ambitions, so they can’t be expected to follow yours.

“Never tell a child what not to do; tell him what to do instead.”

It can be so much more valuable for a child to be told what they should be doing or why certain behavior is wrong, rather than just hearing phrases like “Stop!” or “Don’t do that.”

“Allow them to try, meet obstacles and yes, even fail.”

Too many people think of failure as a bad thing, but really, every time we fail, we learn something new that we can use next time to have a better chance of success. It’s only through failure and mistakes that kids can grow, develop, and become better people.

“Shoes matter.”

This is one from a PE teacher, who reminds all parents to choose adequate footwear for their kids at all ages. Close-toed shoes are the best option for athletics and sports.

“Please respond to our emails and phone calls.”

Teachers understand that many parents have busy schedules, but your kids’ well-being and education needs to be a priority. If teachers contact you, they probably have a very good reason for doing so and need a reply.

“Lingering only leads to upset kids.”

When you’re dropping off little ones at the school gates, spending too much time hugging and kissing and chatting will only make them feel more apprehensive about saying goodbye. Give them a quick hug, kiss, smile, and send them on their way.

“Your child’s mental, social, and emotional health should always trump grades.”

Always prioritize your child’s health over everything else. There are so many kids out there getting straight As but suffering socially or emotionally. If you’re faced with a choice between getting a counsellor or therapist for your child and a tutor to improve their kids, always choose the former.

“Some kids are simply late bloomers.”

Maybe your kid struggles with math or reading for the first couple of years of school. Don’t freak out. There are plenty of examples all the time of kids who have a few problems early on but get a lot better as they grow older.

“If you have a concern, talk to us!”

If you have any issues you want to talk about, feel free to contact the teacher. Just remember that the average teacher can have up to and over 100 students to deal with in a single day, so it might take them a moment to get back to you.

“It’s important not to practise gender bias.”

Ignore the old stereotypes and cliches about boys and girls. Let them be whoever they are. Let them do what they want, without limits.

“Recognise every little effort your child makes.”

Not every kid is going to be the next Einstein. In fact, almost none of them are! Instead of expecting miracles of your child, celebrate the little achievements and accomplishments they make.

“Don’t underestimate the power of technology addiction.”

We’re living in a technological world, and kids are growing up surrounded by smartphones, computers, and video games. It’s fine to let them engage with tech and enjoy it, but only in moderation. More and more kids are being affected by issues like video game addiction, and it’s up to parents to try and find the right balance when it comes to technology in the home.

“You’ll only confuse your kids by introducing methods outside the syllabus.”

When helping out with your child’s homework, you might fall into the trap of thinking you know best and showing them a different method to the one they’ve been taught. While this might be good as a short-term solution, it can only cause confusion in the long-term.

“Don’t ask us to raise their grade.”

If kids put in hard work and effort, their grades will improve and their results will reflect their hard work. If they don’t put in that effort, they’ll get bad grades. It’s a fair system. What’s not fair is asking teachers to change grades just because you aren’t happy about it.

“Support and develop your child’s interests and talents.”

Maybe your son loves to dance, maybe your daughter loves to play soccer, maybe your child is really interested in music or art or crafts. Whatever they like to do, nurture it and get them involved in after-school clubs and activities.

“You’re probably doing it right.”

If you’re a parent reading through this list and worrying about whether or not you’re getting things right, there’s a good chance you’re doing a good job. Simply reading through parenting advice and trying to find ways to improve shows that you care, and that’s the most important thing of all.