How can you help your child to have a successful year in school?
Christina Ciancio-Schor

With school underway, we are very focused on helping your child be successful in school.  Several parents have asked how they can help their child to be more successful.  They wanted to know what they can do at home  to increase their child's opportunity to be successful in school.  The best advice is for parents to become and remain involved in their child's educational program and to create a supportive academic condition in the home.

Research findings have shown that the home environment powerfully influences what children learn within and outside of school.  The research studies also indicate that the environment at home is more powerful than any other factor in influencing student achievement and academic success including parents' income and education.  One of the main reasons this is the case is because from infancy to age 18, children spend approximately 92% of their time outside school under the influence of their parents.

Other factors that are important in curriculum at home include:
  Informed parent-child conversations about school and everyday events
  Encouragement and discussion regarding leisure reading
  Monitoring and critical review of television, video games and cell phone and internet usage
  Deferral of immediate gratification to accomplish long term goals
  Expressions of affection and interest in the child's academic skills and other progress as a person
  Laughter and positive attitudes

It is clear that parents make a significant difference in the education of their child and we hope that you will join us in that effort.  We consider you a partner and want to work closely with you in helping your child be successful in in school. Please let us know if you have any questions.  We are looking forward  to a great year!