The Role of Parents in a Student’s Academic Success: Dos & Don’ts
Every parent wants their child to succeed in school. But how much involvement is too much? And what are the best ways to support learning at home? The role of parents in a student’s academic journey is crucial, but striking the right balance is key. At Fundamentals First Tutoring in Edmonton, we’ve seen firsthand how parental support can shape a student’s confidence, motivation, and overall performance. Here’s a helpful guide on what parents should—and shouldn’t—do to help their child thrive academically.
The Dos: How to Positively Support Your Child’s Learning
1. Encourage a Growth Mindset
A growth mindset is the belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed with effort. When children understand that mistakes are part of learning, they become more resilient and eager to improve.
✅ Praise effort, not just results.
✅ Teach them to see challenges as opportunities to grow.
✅ Remind them that learning takes time and practice.
2. Create a Positive Learning Environment
A good study space can make a big difference in focus and productivity.
✅ Set up a quiet, clutter-free space for homework.
✅ Ensure good lighting and a comfortable chair.
✅ Minimize distractions like TV and smartphones during study time.
3. Foster Good Study Habits
Strong study habits lead to long-term success. Help your child build routines that work for them.
✅ Set a regular homework schedule.
✅ Encourage the use of planners or to-do lists to stay organized.
✅ Teach time management skills to avoid last-minute cramming.
4. Stay Involved, But Let Them Take the Lead
Being involved in your child’s education is great—but not to the point of doing the work for them.
✅ Check in on progress without hovering.
✅ Ask open-ended questions like, “What did you learn today?”
✅ Guide them through problems rather than giving direct answers.
5. Partner with Teachers & Tutors
Collaboration between parents, teachers, and tutors creates a strong support system.
✅ Attend parent-teacher meetings to stay informed.
✅ Communicate concerns or struggles early on.
✅ Consider tutoring support if extra help is needed. Fundamentals First Tutoring in Edmonton offers personalized learning plans to address specific challenges.
The Don’ts: Common Mistakes Parents Should Avoid
1. Don’t Pressure Them for Perfection
Expecting straight A’s can create anxiety and burnout. Instead, focus on progress and effort.
❌ Avoid comparing them to other students.
❌ Don’t make grades the only measure of success.
❌ Encourage learning for understanding, not just for test scores.
2. Don’t Do Their Homework for Them
Helping is fine, but doing the work yourself prevents your child from learning.
❌ Resist the urge to “fix” all mistakes.
❌ Let them struggle a little—it builds problem-solving skills.
❌ Instead of giving answers, ask guiding questions.
3. Don’t Ignore Signs of Struggle
If your child is consistently frustrated or falling behind, they might need extra support.
❌ Don’t dismiss complaints about school as laziness.
❌ Avoid waiting until the last minute to seek help.
❌ Look for signs like avoiding homework, low confidence, or poor grades.
4. Don’t Over-Schedule Their Time
Extracurricular activities are great, but too many can overwhelm a child.
❌ Avoid filling every hour with activities.
❌ Allow time for breaks and relaxation.
❌ Make sure they get enough sleep to stay focused in school.
5. Don’t Ignore Their Learning Style
Every student learns differently. Some thrive with visual aids, while others prefer hands-on activities.
❌ Don’t assume one-size-fits-all study methods work.
❌ Be open to trying different learning techniques.
❌ If traditional studying isn’t working, seek expert guidance—Fundamentals First Tutoring in Edmonton specializes in personalized learning strategies.
How Fundamentals First Tutoring in Edmonton Can Help
Parental support is vital, but sometimes, professional guidance is necessary to address specific academic challenges. At Fundamentals First Tutoring, we provide:
✅ Personalized tutoring plans to match each child’s unique needs.
✅ One-on-one support to boost confidence and understanding.
✅ Strategies for better study habits to improve long-term academic success.
With the right balance of parental involvement and expert tutoring, every student can reach their full potential.
Final Thoughts
Parents play a powerful role in shaping a child’s academic journey. By focusing on encouragement, creating a supportive environment, and knowing when to step back, you can set your child up for success. Remember, learning is a journey—not a race.
If your child needs extra academic support, Fundamentals First Tutoring in Edmonton is here to help.
📞 Contact us today to learn more about our tutoring programs.
➡️ Visit Our Website: https://fundamentalsfirst.ca/
➡️ Call Us: +1-587-937-7475
Together, let’s build a brighter academic future—one step at a time!
