THE EDITOR, Sir:
CHILDREN ARE special: An extra special gift from God. "The purpose of the child is to live, to feel the mysterious presence of life in every limb, and in so far as he does this he is happy..." says Holbrook Jackson. While Henry Wadsworth Longfellow echoed the sentiment that "A torn jacket is soon mended, but hard words bruise the heart of a child".
In a book I read entitled PLAYFUL PARENTING by Denise Chapman, it underscores the point that "Our problem-solving approach is based on five theories:
That of Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs, which teaches democratic parenting through the use of encouragement and logical consequences;
Haim Ginott and Thomas Gordon's approach, which enhances communication skills and teaches parents how to respond to the underlying feelings of children;
Family systems theory, which focuses on the relationships and dynamics of the family unit;
The behavioural approach which emphasises shaping or correcting behaviour through positive and negative reinforcement and;
The basic premise behind play therapy which holds that play is the best vehicle for communication and problem solving.
Parents may sometimes ask the question, "how can I really help my children perform better in school"? However, to begin, parents could stay tuned to what's happening in their child's school. They could meet the form/class teacher, other teachers and maintain a professional relationship. They could also attend the PTA meetings on a regular basis and volunteer to help whenever and wherever possible.
WAYS TO OFFER HELP
Here are some other practical ways through which they can help their children in school.
HELP 1: Listen to your children. Encourage them to talk about their school activities. They will learn to express themselves if they realise that they have your attention.
HELP 2: Praise them when they succeed. Remember that recognition and approval reinforce learning.
HELP 3: Avoid comparing your children. It is an unhealthy habit, both literally and figuratively. Let your children know that you love them, whether they learn slower or faster than the others.
HELP 4: Know exactly how they are doing in school. If they are having problems, do not wait to be contacted by the school. Make an appointment with the teacher and find out how best you can assist.
HELP 5: Be patient. If they make the same homework mistakes repeatedly, do not despair, keep hope alive; constantly encourage them.
HELP 6: Provide a place conducive for the children to study in peace and quiet and good light. Remember eating healthy, rest and prayer are vital ingredients to success.
HELP 7: Ensure that children do not miss school unnecessarily.
HELP 8: Provide a wide variety of reading materials in your home. Get them interested in newspapers and also to look at labels. Encourage them to join the public library.
I am, etc.,
PAUL MESSAM
President
Acadia Citizens' Association
