Parenting for Academic Success
Parent-Teacher WorkshopHoliday Inn ResortAugust 27, 2011
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
2
Ground Rules1. Listen Attentively to Others.2. Participate in Activities/Discussion.3. Take turns.4. Keep cell phones on Silent Mode.5. Take calls outside the room and be
brief.6. Save off-topic talk for the break.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
3
Dance Around 1. Each time the music plays…Dance
around the room to the Music. 2. When it stops…Find a partner,
introduce yourself, then, say “hello” in your native language. Share one thing you like to do.
3. Exchange roles. 4. Repeat until you’ve met 3 new people.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
4
AGENDAI. Communicating Effectively II. Understanding Expectations (U.S. School System)III. Establishing Routines/Family ActivitiesIV. Balancing Rules and ConsequencesV. Setting Goals
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
5
I. Communicating Effectively Think-Pair-Share
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
6
Point to Remember: Communication is Important• But not knowing English yet, is not a
problem. Ask questions! The school works for you and your child. Let your needs be known through:
– Home-school planner– Phone calls– Email– School Visits– Translator
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
7
Point to RememberLearn English…
• But NEVER stop speaking your native language! Bilingualism is a huge advantage!
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
8
II. Understanding ExpectationsCultural Variables
Variable RangeParticipation Whole Group Small Group/Pairs ” Competitive Non-competitiveDecision-Making
Individual Collective
Roles Active PassiveConcept of Time
Linear (concrete) Circular (abstract)
Expression Vocal Reserved ” Non-conforming ConformingInteraction Direct Indirect Mode of learning
Theoretical Practical
Recognition Overt praise Private acknowledgementSingled Out Group-oriented
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
9
Cultural ComparisonsMicronesia
*People get close when speaking.
*It is socially acceptable
not to be ruled by the clock.
United States
*People have a concept of personal space.
*Punctuality is an act of courtesy and is expected by all.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
10
Cultural ComparisonsMicronesia
*There is a distinct respect for teachers who make most educational decisions.
*Teachers decisions are rarely questioned.
United States
*Parent participation and collaboration with the teacher is expected.
*It is acceptable to question or disagree with decisions when warranted.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
11
Cultural ComparisonsMicronesia
*Written parental consent is not required, except for off-campus events.
*Parents need not be notified of a problem or event every time.
United States *The school must
legally obtain a signed consent, but is limited in scope.
*Parents are expected to update the school of changes in information data.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
12
Cultural ComparisonsMicronesia
*Teachers make most educational decisions.
*Parents learn of progress via report cards.
United States*Collaboration
between parent and teacher is expected.
*Student Progress is regularly communicated to parents.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
13
Cultural ComparisonsMicronesia
*Parents are expected to come to school when invited.
*School attendance is legally required, but
loosely enforced.
United States *Parents are expected
to volunteer and participate in school activities.
*Attendance is mandatory and excessive absence may result in court appearance and fines.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
14
Cultural ComparisonsMicronesia
*Poor behavior is handled mainly by the school.
*Student collaboration is encouraged more than individual work.
*Students prefer not being singled out.
United States*Zero tolerance for
certain behaviors. Home-school intervention.
*Student is expected to compete individually.
*Students are singled out for their achievements.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
15
Shared Responsibilities
1. Count off from 1-4.2. Each group of 3-4 will identify a
recorder and a reporter. Brainstorm the role of:
-Parents (Group 1) -Teachers (Group 2) -Students (Group 3) -Administrators (Group 4)
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
16
Point to Remember
ALL Stakeholders Must Participate for Academic
Success!
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
17
III. Establishing Routines/Family Activities
• Think about your daily routines at home. Write a list and indicate time spent doing that activity.
• Create a personal pie chart to allot time each day for all that needs to happen for your child to succeed (ex: from 3:30-8:30 p.m.)
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
18
Point to Remember
• Daily routine is comforting to a child. It improves performance and reassures them that there is order and security in family life. This includes homework routines.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
19
IV. Balancing Rules/Consequences
• Name 3:House Rules Consequences1. 1.2. 2.3. 3.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
20
Point to Remember
• Discipline, respect, and courtesy are necessary in everyone’s life; a child models at school what he/she learns at home.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
21
V. Setting Goals
• Use the index cards to write one personal goal for yourself
and….• One goal for your child.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
22
Point to Remember
• Goals can be attained if….
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
23
Emphasize the Importance of Education
• In the U.S. brains can pay for much of your child’s higher education…
• And your own! Keep learning alive always!!!
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
24
Encourage Reading• Local public libraries and school
libraries offer many resources including books, videos, dvds, computer access, magazines, and special events. Take advantage of them.
Prepared by Marie C. Benito Parenting for Academic Success
25
Get Involved
• Join the Parent Teacher Organization at your school.
• Attend regular parent teacher conferences and other school functions.
• Volunteer to assist in the classroom.• Encourage your child to do the same.