Learning to succeed in school

By DR. DAN BRENNAN — August 21, 2009

An American Studies teacher at Goleta Valley Junior High used to tell us, “I can teach you, but I can’t learn you”. It is obvious that this statement did not come from a grammar teacher, but I remember the message very clearly after all of these years.

The classroom may be the place where a teacher teaches, but the home is where a student really learns. With so many subjects and so much to learn, there are not enough hours in the school day for a student to master all of his reading, writing and arithmetic at school.

Homework

Homework assignments reinforce the lessons of the day. It is critical that students keep track of their assignments and turn them in on time. Parents can help their children keep track of their homework and make sure that it is completed in a satisfactory manner. Proofreading essays and double-checking math homework can help children learn at home, turn in quality work and build self-esteem.

Attendance

Every effort should be made to minimize school absences. Taking an extended family vacation or scheduling a routine doctor visit during school hours is disruptive to a child’s education and may send a message to a child that school is not a priority.

Structure

A child who just “hangs-out” or watches endless hours of TV after school is more likely to be distracted, get into trouble and less likely to complete his homework. A child that has an organized afternoon, including a homework club, soccer practice, music lessons or just a quiet place to study, can become better organized while learning to budget time and energy.

Get involved at your school

Establishing communication with the teacher will demonstrate your interest in your child’s education. Being involved can help you monitor your child’s progress. Having a positive attitude toward your child’s teacher, school and homework assignments will enhance your student’s interest.

Our schools need your help. Every parent has something to offer, from being a PTA member, classroom volunteer or bringing a professional expertise into the classroom. Generally, the more parental participation your child’s school has, the better the educational experience will be for your child and his classmates.

Importance of education

Education is the great equalizer. The more education we have, the more doors that will be open for us. Success starts from the elementary level.

A child’s excitement about school often mirrors parental attitudes. Completing homework on time and in a quality manner will help promote a strong work ethic and a positive self-image. Minimizing absences and getting involved with our schools will help build solid foundations and better schools.

As the world around us becomes more competitive, education becomes even more vital to our future successes. Have a wonderful school year!

Dr. Dan Brennan is a board-certified pediatrician and Santa Barbara native who is looking forward his five year old starting kindergarten. His column can be found in the Daily Sound on alternating Fridays. Please contact him at 563-6211 or visit www.SBPediatrics.com.

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Happy School Year! : 8/23/2009

The more parents who help in our schools, the better our schools become.

SB Parent

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