Get a Child to Talk About School

When your child comes home from school, you're always eager to hear from them, but they don't respond and slump on the sofa instead.

Steps

 * 1)  Take an interest. Start by asking simple questions such as "So, what did you do at school today?" or "How was school?" when your child comes home. When they shrug, don't respond or ignore you, try asking if they did anything interesting. There's a big difference between "Things" at school and "Interesting Things" at school.  "What was your favorite thing that happened at school today?" is a good question to get some conversation going.
 * 2)  Help them with schoolwork. Whenever your youngster brings home homework or a reading book, help them out. This will not only teach them valuable skills, but it can also boost your relationship with one another. Whilst helping, ask your child simple questions such as "Have you been enjoying [the subject you're helping them with]?" Children may be struggling with the subject, so try and help them and ask them to pay attention in class.
 * 3)  Show them what school is for. School is for learning and building skills, but it's also a place to make new friends, blossom your creativity and improve social skills. Teach your child what else school can be used for, that they should respect school rules (unless you have a problem with them), and to respect school property and keep it tidy.
 * 4) Communicate with the teacher. Find out what you can do to help your child at home.  Let the teacher know when you have concerns.  Let the teacher know you appreciate his or her efforts when appropriate.
 * 5) Go to school when you can. Open house, conferences, volunteer in the classroom, and attend all school functions if possible.  This lets your child know that school is important.

Tips

 * Stick to a routine. Children should start to want to do homework when they arrive home, not push it out of the way.
 * Feed them right. Give your child omega-3, which is great for boosting brain power. Make sure they have plenty of fruit and vegetables, protein and fibre in their diets, which is perfect for growing up!

Warnings

 * Don't pester them when they walk through the door. Instead, try slipping the questions into a conversation at the dinner table or when watching TV with your child.

Related

 * How to Appear Like a Smart Girl at School
 * How to Have a Great Day at School