How Can Parents Improve Academic Achievement?
The latest National Report Card raises alarms among educators, policymakers, and parents alike. The statistics reveal that a significant number of students across the nation fail to meet standard benchmarks for academic achievement in critical subjects such as reading and math. This situation not only reflects the current educational climate, but also raises questions about underlying factors contributing to these disheartening results.
Unfortunately, the findings show a disturbing trend: a growing number of students are falling behind, widening a gap between those who are meeting academic standards and those who are not.
One of the most striking aspects of the report is the decline in reading proficiency. Data show that the percentage of students achieving at or above the proficient level has decreased significantly compared to previous years. This decline is particularly concerning, as reading skills are foundational to academic success across all subjects. When students struggle with reading, their ability to comprehend complex texts and engage critically with material suffers, which can lead to further challenges in math, science, and social studies.
Mathematics scores also tell a troubling story. The results indicate that fewer students are reaching proficiency in math compared to past assessments. Education experts stress that mathematical competency is essential not just for academic achievement, but for fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are crucial in today’s job market.
The implications of these trends extend beyond individual students. A generation of learners who are not meeting educational benchmarks poses significant challenges for society as a whole. The workforce of the future relies on an educated populace, and failing to address these educational gaps could result in a diminished capacity for innovation and economic growth. It is a sobering thought as we consider what this might mean for the future job market and the economy at large.
What can families do today? We are all busy, but parents and community members need to fill the educational gaps and provide enrichment opportunities for our students.
Here are some practical ideas to get started:
Reading Together
Engage younger children with a variety of exciting books and meaningful discussions. For older students, please encourage them to read diverse literature unless their school requires a robust and diverse reading list. Establish a designated time at home when everyone can read or, at the very least, listen to audiobooks together. Lead by example; make it work for your busy schedule. Don’t forget to visit your local library which offer an endless supply of books, knowledgeable librarians who can recommend books for any purpose, and a relaxing environment to enjoy reading (or complete homework).
Foster Vocabulary and Speaking Skills
Children continue to learn language beyond early childhood, extending into adolescence and adulthood. Expressive language skills refer to the ability to produce written or spoken communication that effectively conveys one’s information or intentions. Receptive language skills involve the ability to understand the deeper meanings and details of communication. A strong vocabulary is a significant indicator of successful comprehension. Talk with your kids and provide them opportunities to talk with others.
Real-Life Math
Incorporate everyday tasks, such as grocery shopping or planning a home improvement project, to help children apply their math skills. Teaching younger kids essential math facts/skills creates a strong foundation for more advanced mathematical work. If older kids have difficulty with basic math facts, provide them with calculators to help them engage with more complex concepts.
Explore History
Bring history to life by visiting historical sites, in-person or online, and discussing events’ relevance today. Mapping skills are also valuable in real-world situations. Families in Western North Carolina learned the necessity for basic mapping when GPS systems failed during historic flooding.
Engaging with Science
Cultivate a passion for science by providing children with hands-on experiences that spark their curiosity. Encourage them to ask questions and investigate the world around them, whether through outdoor experiments, interactive demonstrations, or real-life problem-solving activities. By fostering an environment that promotes exploration and inquiry, we can help young learners develop critical thinking skills and a lifelong love for scientific discovery.
Encouraging Curiosity
Celebrate questioning and support children in pursuing their interests to deepen understanding.
Building Resilience
Instill perseverance by celebrating efforts and conveying that setbacks are part of growth.
Balanced Technology Use
Remind kids that technology should enhance independent thinking and creativity, not replace it. By incorporating these activities into daily life, families can enrich their children’s learning experiences, paving the way for a successful academic future!
Getting Extra Support
If you have concerns about your child’s education, it’s essential to communicate those concerns to their teacher or school counselor. Some children may simply need additional help. If the school cannot provide the necessary support, there are alternative options available. We can assist in connecting you with private tutors or evaluate your student in person) to understand their academic profile and rule in or rule out a learning disability.
Remember that numerous websites offer resources such as video lessons, practice questions, one-on-one live sessions, and group classes. While many of these resources are safe and effective, be sure to research them before use. Additionally, consider exploring community programs for further assistance, and don’t hesitate to ask at your local library for more support options.
If you would like to learn more about your child’s learning profile so that you can help them with academic achievement, reach out to Horizon Psychological Services today to schedule an appointment.
