LOVING LIFE... A Publication of Love Fellowship Christian Center, Inc. OCT/NOV 4.1 | Page 9

Q) How can parents equip their children to succeed academically?
A) A parent is a child’s first teacher. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs tells us that the following things must exist in a child’s life in order for them to realize self-fulfillment. They are: Psychological, Safety, Love/
Belonging, Esteem, and Self-Actualization, which is a time when they truly come into their own. There must
be an intentional commitment by the parent to make sure that the needs of their children are fulfilled. As a
child’s first teacher, a parent must demonstrate what success looks like. Children need to see their parents/
guardians working toward their goals; they need to see how to persevere even in challenging times. They
need to see their parent (s) reading. They need to take the time to hear what their child has to say as well as
spend quality time with them. You’d be surprised how much you could learn about what’s going on in the
classroom/school if you listen and/or ask your children to share their day. Parents or guardians need to establish a relationship with their child’s school/teacher so they can stay on top of their child’s progress and
see what help they need if they are experiencing difficulty. Most of all, a parent/guardian must never, never
give up on their child. Don’t compare your child to their siblings or someone else’s child. Just give your
child unconditional love and support. The past is the past, you may have not been the stellar student in
school or as a child, but as the parent today we know you want better for your child, and that is what’s most
important. Mom, Dad, other love ones, hang in there with them. Be patient. Be kind and loving. Focus on
their efforts and encourage them to try again and again until they accomplish the task. Always be steadfast
in their success. When they come into their own, you have no idea what greatness God has planned for
them. Remember, your children are on loan to you from Him. Take care of His children well.
During the Elementary School years: Make time for your child when you come home from work or when
they come home from school. Family time or eating together is so valuable. Choose books of interest and
read with your child. Ask them questions about the book. Do homework with them each night. Make sure
their homework is neat, accurate, and complete. If you are unsure about the answer or homework, just
write a note to the teacher to contact you and request additional time for your child to get the homework
complete. For example, some schools offer sessions for parents to learn the math being taught to their
child. Just ask your child’s school if they offer this kind of service.
During the Middle School years: Structure, discipline, and follow-up are most important during this phase
of a middle school student’s world. The phrase, “an idle mind, is the devil’s workshop” is nothing to take
lightly. As a parent, you have to be the captain, monitoring your child’s activities and education all of the
time. Peer pressure and bullying has the greatest effect during this stage of your child’s life. It is important
that a healthy home environment is maintained so that the doors of communication and respect for authority are the understanding and practice in your home. It is important that your child knows they can talk to
you about anything so that you can advise or help them. Establishing a strong and positive relationship
with your child’s teachers is equally important. Review their homework; don’t just ask if they completed
their homework, look at the homework. Ask them to explain it to you. Most schools in Maryland such as
Harford County Public School have a grading program called Edline which enables students and parents to
monitor academic progress or learn about the school’s upcoming events. Make sure that you visit this site
throughout the week. If you do not have access to your child’s account, you can contact the school to get
your access code. Whenever you have concerns about your child’s progress, please contact the teacher or
school immediately.
During the High School years: Students at this level need your encouragement and support more than ever.
Yes, they will try to send the message that they don’t need your help; however, your expectations regarding
their academic accomplishments, conduct, behavior, and commitment to success should be clear and consistent throughout high school. You have to encourage them to stay on top of their grades. Build a positive relationship with the school and teachers and make it your business to know who they are hanging around in
school and out of school to help them avoid the pitfalls of peer pressure and increase more opportunities
after they graduate. Be real with your