The Busy Parent's Guide to Raising Successful Students

by Maya Cohen

At home

1. Organize your time; planning is vital. Create schedules and calendars for each month, and block out time to spend with your kids talking about school, helping with homework, chatting with teachers, or volunteering at school.
2. Learn to multitask. Do chores in the same room where your child does his homework. That way you'll be available to answer his questions or discuss the subjects that he's studying.
3. Know when school programs, extracurricular activities, and special events are scheduled. You can do this on your own time by visiting the school website, or you can call the administrative office and request a calendar or pamphlet.
4. Create a network of committed and involved parents with the shared goal of advancing your children's education. Stay in touch with the parents of your child's classmates, and use this network to carpool, to arrange study groups, and to stay apprised of what's happening in the classroom. Don't be afraid to lean on other parents for help -- volunteer your free time in return.
5. Develop a routine or a ritual in which you spend time learning with your child. If you cannot have dinner as a family, then eat breakfast together and discuss school or current events. If a daily routine is impossible, then try to schedule a weekly activity. Get up early on Sundays and go for a walk, or read a story together as a family.
6. If possible, use your workplace as a resource. Many mothers use their workplace as a home base where children can come after school to study or read while they wait for parents to wrap up the day. Take advantage of day care programs or understanding supervisors at your place of work. If you have your own office, let your children use it as a quiet and productive space. Find out if your company is willing to reimburse fees or offer scholarships for educational programs. Speak to a Human Resources representative, and ask about opportunities for your family.