As a parent, you are an integral part of your child’s education. That rings true whether they are homeschooled, attend a brick and mortar school, or take online classes. While participating in their education doesn’t necessarily require you to be their teacher, it does mean that some of your actions can have an impact on their success.
Here are three ways parents can help their child succeed in an online school setting:
Stay Involved
Just as traditional schools hold parent-teacher conferences and open houses, many online programs also have methods in place for parents to easily engage with instructors.
At virtual schools like VLACS, teachers are available by email and phone for as long as your child is their student. Parents are also encouraged to check in periodically under their child’s online school account to review:
– Course materials
– Grade books
– Instructor announcements
– Assignment feedback
It’s advised that parents schedule monthly appointments to discuss the pace and progress of their child’s education and to address any opportunities for advancement or improvement.
Staying involved will show your child that you have an interest in their education, which can directly impact their success by boosting their self-confidence.
Motivate Them Toward Success
Students pursuing an online education through schools with customized learning programs, like VLACS, will have a sense of control since they can choose when, where, and how they learn. Taking ownership of their education is likely to inspire a strong sense of motivation, but parents can take this a step further.
Motivation can be anything from establishing a goal, like studying for one hour every night, to praising them for their accomplishments. Offering incentives and celebrating achievements shows your child that you’re proud of the work they’re doing and it makes sure their efforts don’t go unnoticed.
Don’t forget to teach your child the benefits of an education. They most likely know that they have to go to school, but they might not completely understand why. Explaining how it can impact their future is a stepping stone toward motivating them to succeed.
Helping your child realize the importance of education will set them up for a strong work ethic that will carry them through to their eventual careers.
Create a Comfortable Learning Environment
Since your child won’t be in a typical school setting, they’ll need an area of their own where they can focus on their coursework and study without any distractions.
The first step is to determine where they learn best. Some options are:
– Home
– Library
– Community center
– Coffee shop
– Park
The environment of a public place won’t necessarily be one you can control, but if they work best from home you can help them create their own unique space by providing:
Necessary equipment: This can include a computer, internet access, and a nearby printer.
Distraction-free zone: Avoid setting up their space in a high-traffic or loud area of the house, like the kitchen.
Comfortable surroundings: Make sure they have enough room and a cozy place to sit so that they can focus undisturbed.
A regular workspace that your child can count on will help instill structure and consistency in their study habits.
The support you give your child throughout their education now can put them on the right track for success in the future. For more information about how you can help your child succeed in virtual courses, attend an open house.
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