What can I do at home to help my child succeed in school?

• Create a home environment that encourages learning and schoolwork. Establish a daily family routine of mealtimes with time for homework, chores and bedtime as well as time for family activities.
• Show your child that the skills he is learning in school are an important part of the things he will do as an adult. Let him see you reading books, newspapers and computer screens; writing reports, letters, e-mails and lists; using math to figure change or to measure for new carpeting; and doing things that require thought and effort.
• Make sure that your home has lots of reading materials that are appropriate for your child. Keep books, magazines and newspapers in the house. You can find many good books and magazines for your child at yard or library sales. Books make good gifts.
• Encourage your child to use the library. Ask the librarian to tell your child about special programs that she might participate in, such as summer reading programs and book clubs and about services such as homework help.
• Limit TV viewing to no more than one hour on a school night. Be aware of the shows your child likes to watch and discuss his choices with him. The same goes for video games.
• Help your child learn to use the Internet properly and effectively.

• Encourage your child to be responsible and to work independently. Taking responsibility and working independently are important qualities for school success.

• Show an interest in what your child does in school. Support her special interests by attending school plays, musical events, science fairs or sporting events.

• Offer praise and encouragement for achievement and improvement.