by Pastor John Schaefli, III

“Why don’t you work on your homework?”
“I don’t have any.”
Is this a common exchange in your house? As an educator, one of the most common complaints I hear from parents is that their child and/or their teacher does not communicate with them about school. Then when progress reports or grades come home, parents are often frustrated about how their children are doing in school. Too often the vital link between parent and student is severed because of a lack of understanding or communication. The Bible clearly teaches that the most important relationship in a student’s educational life is with his or her parents.

Here are some things to consider as you interact with your child regarding their schoolwork:

1. Kids often look for the path of least resistance. Simply asking them if they have homework, or if it has been completed will not usually result in a completely honest answer. Instead, ask them specific questions about topics covered in class, ask to see books they have been reading, and especially ask to see what they have written lately. Show interest, not suspicion, and they may open up.

2. Share your own experiences about school. Your child may be more willing to open up about an academic or social struggle if they know that you have gone through some of the same things. Share funny or embarrassing stories, past failures and successes, and especially regrets. This could give them a better sense of your expectations.

3. Ask them about their teachers: Which ones do they like? Do any seem unfair? Do they give too much work? Too little? Would it help if you talked to a particular teacher?

4. Many times a drop in grades is completely unrelated to academics. This is why parents play such a crucial role. Is there a problem with a friend? Not enough rest? Fear of something at school? Many times a little information like this can help a teacher give a student the support they need.

Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many. . . He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live. . . My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother. . .
-Proverbs