Creating a learning environment at home leads to academic success

Jet, Dec 1, 1997

When kids enter school, the parent's role as teacher should not end. In fact, a strong home-learning environment can help children improve their chances for academic success.

Helping kids learn at home can be a lesson in itself. Peter Relic, president of the National Association of Independent Schools in Washington, D.C., recently provided tips on helping to create a learning environment to the Chicago Sun-Times.

* Put up a map or globe in the home. By using a map or globe, parents and kids can explore their family's places of origin, cities they have visited and places they would like to go.

* Assign chores. To teach children responsibilities, assign a regular job around the home. Be sure the child is held accountable for good, quality work. It will teach him or her the value of work done well and on time.

* Be a student too. Parents can learn from their children, particularly on the computer. If children can teach what they've learned, it shows how well and effectively they've learned.

* Advocate math and science. Experts say one of the main problems with math and science is low expectations. Encourage students to take math and science each year.

* Tell jokes. Sharing jokes as a family will improve communication skills and provide confidence. And it's fun.

* Communicate. Family members should talk with one another, instead of watching television. Perhaps family members can learn one or two words in a foreign language and use them frequently.

* Read. Encourage all family members to make a reading list of titles, authors and comments on books they've read in school and for pleasure. Discuss the books during meals and make trips together to the library.

* Write. Kids at any age can write letters. Parents can also help kids create stories and write them. Experiment with one writing the beginning of a story and the other ending it.

* Play number and word games. Playing games may stimulate children's imaginations while giving them practice using words and numbers.

* Volunteer. Parents and children can team up for a community cleanup project or collect canned goods for a food bank. By volunteering together, kids learn from their parents' examples.

* Exercise. Parents and children can exercise together by taking leisurely walks, running or playing ball. Physical fitness, good relationships and academic success go together.