Ryan Editorial TeamToday’s busy urban life is highly demanding in terms of time and energy. This is particularly true for the middle class and upper middle class Indian families, where both the parents work. They walk a tight rope balancing deadlines, meetings, targets, career advancements along with building a family and the education of their children. This is not an easy task. It becomes even more difficult with various digital distractions. Kids’ scores plummet and their motivation is down. Parents try to help but they can’t invest fully in helping their children. What an anxious spot to be in!
However, the truth is it is a completely manageable situation. No need for hours of tutoring and expensive private coaching. With simple and consistent efforts, you can help your kid score better in their exams. Not only that, but you can also create a positive impact on their academic performance and overall wellness.
This blog post explores how Indian urban working parents can help their children improve their academic performance. Read on!
First understand where your child stands
Before planning or beginning to act, understand your child’s current academic level. Talk to them in a non-confronting manner and understand their level of interest, motivation, and struggles. If their scores are slipping, find out whether it is due to a lack of interest in studies or a lack of understanding of concepts. Also, understand their aspirations so that you can support them in their journey.
Gently ask them if they are stressed or overwhelmed with their studies. Try to understand the reason for stress, if any. It might be due to the sheer volume of syllabus, peer pressure, lack of understanding of the subjects, or even your non-availability.
Create a study-friendly atmosphere at home
It is very important to have a conducive atmosphere at home for studying. TV blaring during study hours is a strict no. The elderly can watch soap operas after the study hours or if they want to watch them, arrange for them to watch them from a different room (of course, at a reduced volume).
Ensure that your kid’s study table is neat and tidy. Train them to tidy up the table before and after use. It can instil a sense of responsibility in them.
Set a clear schedule for their studies. They must follow the schedule even if you are not around or attending a meeting from your home office. Instill that discipline to follow the schedule diligently.
Use technology smartly
A myriad of digital tools can help your child with academic activities. Many educational channels on YouTube can help your kid understand complex mathematical and scientific concepts through effective graphics and explanation. The Internet, when correctly used, can be a boon to your child’s academic excellence.
Other than online education portals, there are tools that can help time-pressed working parents track their children’s academic performance. For example, Ryan School’s Ryan Learning Management System, designed for a superior teaching-learning experience, ensures the availability of a vast range of learning materials online so that learning becomes an exciting and continuous process.
Such tools consist of a huge volume of additional material like videos and presentations. Concept explanations etc., which makes learning fun for the kids.
Tracking tools such as Ryan’s Parent App enable you to access your child’s homework assignments, exam schedules, portions, and revision sheets through your phone anytime, even during your breaks at work. These tools provide the required information in a comprehensive manner and help you participate actively in your kid’s education journey.
Make learning fun!
Studies do not have to be boring. You can make it interesting by including learning during your everyday activities.
For example, while you are out shopping, you can teach your kid practical numerical skills and concepts such as percentages. You can take them to the nearest fire station or bank to let them have first-hand experience of the work being done in these places.
While on vacation, you can teach them concepts of geography and history practically. Such activities will enhance their interest and curiosity.
A few practical tips
Along with physical support, emotional support is paramount for your child. Make sure you don’t miss their important school events. Showing up at their key school events, if not all, makes a positive impression in their mind that they are supported and valued.
Make time every day to empathetically understand that day’s happenings at school. Pick up a genuine interest in her activities.
When they score less in their exams, don’t be too hard on them. Be gentle, yet firm, in your discussions related to their academic performance. At the same time, if they score well, appreciate them genuinely. It never takes much time for a gentle hug and a heartfelt “well done”.
Conclusion: You don’t have to be perfect, just be present
As a working parent, you’re already doing your best. Don’t blame yourself for not being able to help your child in every academic activity. Let’s be practical. You can’t do it all! What matters most is your understanding, involvement, encouragement, and belief in your child.
Even 15 minutes of dedicated conversation a day can make your child feel valued and appreciated, which will reflect in better scores. Remember, small and consistent steps bring big results.
If you’ve tried any of these tips or have your own ideas, share them in the comments — it will help other parents too!
