THE PARENT’ S ROLE

There are many things that you as a parent can do to help make school a wonderful

experience for your child. Read some of the ideas listed below. Do not be overwhelmed

by them and feel you have to do everything. Choose one or two to begin with and add

others as you feel comfortable doing so.

1. Read aloud daily to your child, especially preschoolers.

2. Take your child to the public library. Check on story hours, reading clubs, and

other special programs.

3. Talk with your child and listen to what he/she has to say.

4. Show an interest in school. Ask questions and give praise and encouragement as

appropriate.

5. Play games with your child. Work puzzles together.

6. Make your mornings as unhurried as possible. Make sure your child eats breakfast,

brushes his/her teeth, combs his/her hair, washes his/her hands and face, and has

clean clothes on. Pack up whatever you can the night before.

7. Help instill the attitude in your child that children are there to learn and the teacher

is there to help them.

8. Get your child to bed at a reasonable hour.

9. Make your child feel important at home.

10. Answer your child’s questions simply and directly.

11. Allow your child to develop a feeling of independence.

12. Teach your child the correct names of people and things.

13. Read often and let your child see you. Let him/her feel that you enjoy it.

14. Encourage your child to follow directions and to pay attention.

15. Show your child that books aren’t the only kind of reading ; magazines , packages ,

letters, road signs, etc., are other sources.

16. Most of all , be patient. Remember they are children.