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"D" Is for Dad
14 Ways Fathers Can Help Their Kids Excel in School By Donna Smith
6. Make time for your child to tell you about her day and also take the time to tell her about your day. If you can establish a good communication pattern and rapport with your child, she will be much more likely to talk to you about any problems she is having.
7. Remember that Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are the heaviest "homework days." Take that into consideration when planning the family schedule. Monitor your child's homework assignments to make sure they are completed correctly and in a timely manner.
Nixon points out that a dad often gets home after homework is completed or started. "Keep it simple," he says. "When you get home, drop the briefcase ... do not turn on the TV or change clothes. Get in a relaxed mindset for a moment and then look over your child's shoulder to see what he is doing and to let them know you are a resource for[him] if[he needs]it."
8. If your child is elementary school age, read with her at least twice a week for 30 minutes. If you do this, she will likely be more willing to do her homework and participate more in class. Take her to the library once every week or two and let her choose her own reading material.
9. Suggest that your child's school implement a program that brings parents into the classroom to describe their careers. This is a great way to help kids realize the broad range of opportunities available to both men and women.
10. When helping with homework, don't take a "Dad to the rescue!" attitude. If your child needs help with a difficult assignment, work through it with him and help him understand how the process leads to the final answer. If you try to solve problems for your child, you will foster dependence rather than self-sufficiency and confidence.
