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“Parents are a child’s first teacher.” This common saying rings true in the development of a child’s educational experiences and capacities. Once someone becomes a parent, they are not only their children’s primary caregiver but also their first role model. Activities such as reading together, helping with homework, and establishing and maintaining a relationship with their children’s school and teachers will be conducive in facilitating an environment of educational growth. Parental involvement in their children’s education is not only important, but necessary. Before children begin their formal schooling, parents can get a “head start” on their education through reading to them from a very young age. Reading together can increase their vocabulary and comprehension. An article from the University of Melbourne states that previous studies have found a positive association of parents reading to their children and the child’s subsequent reading skills, language skills, and cognitive development. Also, dual-language books can increase their chance of developing fluency in two languages simultaneously, therefore fostering bilingualism. Parents who are not bilingual can use audiobooks in the target language to assist in their learning. Furthermore, libraries are great resources in increasing literacy. Many libraries offer storytelling and activities to engage interest in reading. Additionally, parents can help their children with their homework once they have reached school age. Doing this provides opportunities for parents to see what their children are learning in their studies. According to a study conducted by Professor Ardita Ceka and Professor Rabije Murati, when parents involve themselves in the educational process of their children, usually the outcome can be qualified as a positive and encouraging one. Likewise, helping with homework gives an opportunity for parents and children to further cultivate their relationship. Parents will begin to understand the strengths and weaknesses of their development, and children will feel more supported in their learning. This builds confidence which will be reflected in their studies and build independence and a healthy self-esteem through positive affirmations. Moreover, parents should try to develop a relationship with their children’s teachers. Parents and teachers are partners in making sure that the student receives the best education possible. Parents can receive ideas on how to help and support their children through effective communication with their teachers. The National Education Association in America reports that ongoing research shows that family engagement in schools improves student achievement, reduces absenteeism, and restores parents’ confidence in their children’s education. In addition, parents will gain an understanding of the school’s academic programming and curriculum which is vital to having an effective comprehension of their children’s experience. Lastly, parents and teachers will gain a mutual appreciation of each other’s roles in fostering target learning development. Education is not solely the priority of schools and learning institutions. It is important that parents have an active role in ensuring that their children are offered every opportunity to expand their knowledge in order for them to be successful in their personal goals and achievements in the future. Parental involvement transcends the basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter. Through communal effort and proactive actions, parents will encourage a wholesome childhood, because, indeed, education starts at home.
