Parents have an important role in the child’s education. As a parent, you can help by supporting your child in their school work and homework, and by getting involved in your child’s school. Support your child by:
• being patient and supportive of your child in learning and adjusting to a new environment (it takes time).
• being willing to learn or understand a new culture and language (if you are new to this country).
• listening carefully to understand your child’s feelings.
• accepting each child as an individual.
• being positive – praise and encourage what the child has achieved or learned.
• encouraging your child to get involved in school and community activities (for example, Parks & Recreation programs, Brownies, Guides, Cubs, Scouts).
• discussing your child’s report card with him/her. Your child will receive a report card at least three times a year. It is important for you to attend student-led conferences and parent-teacher conferences to discuss your child’s progress. (Please bring someone who can help interpret for you, if needed.)
• sharing family history and experiences. As a family you could visit the museum, library, park or explore your community. Have fun together.
• ensuring your child dresses appropriately (for school activities and weather)
• informing the school about changes in the home (i.e., illness, separations, death, etc.). This information is very beneficial for the school to better understand and support your child. This information will be kept confidential.
• providing an escort for young children to and from school and with supervision before and after school.
Support your child’s school work by:
• working with your school and child to develop appropriate social and academic goals.
• reading together to share ideas in the language with which you feel most comfortable.
• taking your child to the public library and encouraging daily reading.
• ensuring that your child attends school regularly.
• reading all school letters and notices.
• getting ideas from the E.S.L. teacher about games, cards and other fun ways for your child to learn English.
• providing your child with a study area.
• helping to schedule a daily homework time.
• helping your child with his/her homework only after he/she has tried to do it independently.
• keeping younger children away from the study area if possible.
Participate at your child’s school by:
• visiting the school and making an appointment to talk to your child’s teachers to keep informed.
• attending parent meetings and special activities at the school.
• volunteering in the school/classroom.
• seeking help if needed – teachers, counsellors and community agencies are there to assist.
• joining Parent Advisory Committees and/or Community Councils.
