As the new school year started yesterday, it would be great if we all, especially parents and guardians, resolve to rally around our children and support them in their education.

It is a tendency that we all get excited at the beginning but that excitement begins to wane as the year progresses.

Other activities come in the way and draw us away from our education focus and commitment. We need to aim for consistency this year. This could very well mean making some major adjustments in our lifestyles. Things that thwart our efforts to achieve our education goals must be thrown away.

Parental involvement will be formally incorporated into the Government’s Education Framework this year. It should provide the impetus for all parents and guardians to commit themselves for the education of their children.

Parents’ responsibilities are to provide the tools to allow their children to excel and achieve their education goals. They also include creating an environment at home that is conducive to learning. Education is not confined to the classroom only. It continues outside into the homes and other places the children are exposed to. It is important and essential that in these different environments, they continue  to gain knowledge that will broaden and deepen their understanding about what happens around them. They not only learn the sciences, mathematics and the arts, they also learn to be law-abiding and productive citizens.

Attitude and behavior can be nurtured at home in an atmosphere of love and peace. They help shape the future destiny of our children. The drivers of this programme are the parents and guardians. They lay the foundation of each child’s future.

Studies have shown that parents:

• Are role models:

Children are mostly influenced by the actions of their parents. When parents become abusive and violent at home, the children are most likely to follow because they think it’s normal and okay to do it. If parents show they are interested in education, their children are likely to go that way too.

• Spend quality time with their children:

Nothing beats parents spending time with children when they need it most. Because of the different things they see, learn and feel everyday, some not necessarily good for them, they need to be constantly reassured of the good values and principles taught at home. Parents need to show interest in what their children learn at school on a daily basis and take the time to see their homework or assignments and provide help whenever needed.

• Should teach children to take charge of their learning: To be independent thinkers and have an analytical mind and be responsible for their successes and failures.

• Should not over-burden or over-schedule their children: While parents may want to supplement school with outside activities, they should be realistic in expecting them to carry out all the tasks. Some experts say children need downtime as much as they may need to pursue extra-curricular activities.

• Keep TV to a minimum:

Control internet use. Surveys have shown that watching TV a lot and spending too much time on internet prevents children from learning and developing their own interests.

You may add to this list. But it is important to know that the parents and guardians are essential members of the education partnership. They can make a big difference in the education of their children.

NEMANI DELAIBATIKI

Feedback:  nemani.delaibatiki@fijisun.com.fj