Setting School Expectations By Meline Kevorkian, Parent Educator Research indicates that parent expectations have a strong impact on the actual level of achievement. So, Set high expectations for your children in regards to schooling. Encouragement and praise allow children to know what you expect from them. You will be surprised as they live up to these expectations. If your child experiences difficulties in school, let them know you will not be disappointed, but serve as a resource to help lead them to success. Keep the line of communication open. Discuss what they are doing in school and inquire about what is easy and what is challenging. Share your own stories of success, as well as, roadblocks you encountered in your educational journey. Review papers that go home and go over things they have answered incorrectly. You can't help your child if you don't know their struggling. Being aware of their downfalls is essential for helping them to improve. Know where your child is and where they should be. Create goals to envision success. Be proactive, talk to the teacher and find out which skills, if any, are keeping your child from succeeding. For example, many children usually begin to have difficulty in math in 3rd grade mostly due to a lack of basic skills like not knowing their multiplication facts. Usually with consistent drill and practice, children will drastically improve in mathematics. It is important to diagnose weaknesses before frustration and hopelessness of achieving is created. Sometimes solutions are simple, however, early detection is critical. Parents must communicate with the teacher to stay informed on their child's progress. Progress reports are sent home to all students midway through each of the four quarters. Graded schoolwork should be sent home regularly. Use these progress reports and class work to identify gaps in learning. Actively seek solutions such as tutoring and restructuring study habits. Children benefit from parental involvement in their schools. If you work and are unable to volunteer, be sure to discuss the events of each day. Show interest and take active roles in their schoolwork and activities. This generally promote positive attitudes toward school and this is contagious to children. Meline Kevorkian is a parenting educator. Also see: • Tips for a fun and food safe lunch box • Things to have on hand for last-minute school events • Tips for managing homework • Managing morning madness • Public school dress codes growing more popular • Top ten on students' most wanted lists