Here are some simple things you can do at home to help your child read, learn, and succeed.
Let your child know you believe in him or her Tell your child often that you believe in him or her. Let your child hear, starting at a very young age, that you believe in his or her ability to do well.
Talk, sing, and read with your child Talk, sing, and read together, as often as you can! See our suggestions on ways to read with your child.
Involve your extended family Ask all the people who care about your child – aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, godparents, babysitters, neighbors, and friends – to encourage your child to do well in school. Give each of them a copy of the reading tips and activities pages.
Limit your child's TV watching Try to control how much TV your child watches, whether he or she is with you, with a babysitter, or home alone. Children need to hear and talk to adults in order to build their language skills.
Have a positive attitude toward school and learning Take an interest in how your child is doing at school so he or she will believe that learning is important. If you can, find ways to get involved at your child's school.
Make sure your child does homework Look over your child's homework each night. Ask your child to explain what he or she is learning. Make sure that assignments are completed. If possible, find a quiet place for your child to study and set aside time each evening for homework.