Developing the “Ideal Student” in Your Child
Like most parents, you are probably concerned about the academic progress of your son or daughter. Will my child make it successfully through elementary school, high-school, or even just the next math test? Your concern will no doubt intensify if your child happens to be someone who is disinterested in school, showing perhaps more enthusiasm for hockey or socializing with peers than for the intricacies of grammar or algebra. In that case the question of how other students achieve “A’s” effortlessly might be nagging you. How do they do it?
Successful students possess similar traits and habits. (For the purpose of this blog, “success” will be limited to the achievement of above average scores at school.) It seems that good learners invariably:
- are motivated to learn on their own;
- persist in overcoming obstacles;
- complete assignments on time;
- keep neat workbooks and organize their school materials logically;
- have high self-esteem.
Every student has the potential to develop these very same traits and habits, even the most listless child. Here are some suggestions to help you instill in your child the attitude and habits that lead to academic success:
Remember that there is no such student as the “perfect student,” constantly studying, organizing school work, and so on. Even the most motivated student will become somewhat discouraged when faced with a challenging task. It is important, however, that you encourage your child to participate in activities which they enjoy and where they are successful. For example, students who play sports on a regular basis are better able to cope with stress and manage their time successfully.
As a parent, you can only try your best under your own particular circumstances. Chances are that your positive attitude and support will affect your child beneficially. But when something does not work out, it is best to remember the wise words of the following proverb: “You can take a horse to water but you cannot force it to drink!”
