Family/School Engagement Resources

Monday, April 14, 2025

Inspire the courage that leads to success

Many activities in school, such as reading aloud or expressing thoughts in front of others, can take courage. Explain to your child that courage isn't about being physically strong, it's about having inner strength. Make it clear that it is OK to express feelings and fears, and praise your child's everyday acts of bravery. Encourage your student to try new activities and not to worry about failing.

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Tuesday, April 15, 2025

Constructive criticism starts with positive comments

Your child shows you a draft of a report for school, and the first thing you see is a misspelled word. Instead of just pointing it out, think PNP (positive-negative-positive). Start with a positive comment: "You have such an interesting first sentence." Then, mention the misspelling. Follow up with something positive: "I think this is a great start." Your child may be more willing to ask for your feedback again!

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Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Help your child feel secure when the news is scary

When the stories in the news are scary, the way you talk to your child about them matters. Start by finding out about your child's fears, which may be different from reality. Explain that you and other adults are working to keep your child safe. Then, like Mr. Rogers suggested, help your child look for the helpers during difficult times.

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Thursday, April 17, 2025

Help your child learn decision-making from experience

The best way to learn to make good decisions is by making lots of them. Give your child plenty of chances to make choices and learn from the results. A young child can decide between two lunch options. An older child can decide which assignment to tackle first. Just be sure to maintain the boundaries; deciding not to do schoolwork at all isn't an option. Then, help your child connect the choices made with their outcomes.

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Friday, April 18, 2025

Don't let perfectionism interfere with learning

Children who spend all their time trying to be perfect may actually end up hurting their ability to learn. Show that you value who your child is, not what your child does. Help your student decide what work is important and what isn't (researching the report is; coloring the cover for hours probably isn't). Encourage your child to take appropriate risks, and make it clear that it's OK to make mistakes

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Saturday, April 19, 2025

Show your child what listening looks like

Research shows that in order to retain what they hear, students need to focus their attention, then review important information. Be a listening role model for your child. For example, encourage your student to talk about the school day. Then, show you are paying attention by making eye contact and listening patiently. Restate the important points your child makes to confirm your understanding.

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Sunday, April 20, 2025

Some screen activities can be a positive thing

Here are a few ways you can use the internet and other digital media to promote learning: You and your child can "visit" exciting world destinations. You can help your child find videos, apps and websites that show how to make things, and work on projects together. Or, look for sites that introduce new ideas, and then discuss them. You can even strengthen family ties by going online to explore your heritage together.

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