By By Sonya Rogers Education columnist
Successful children are typically a by-product of successful parenting and mentoring. It doesn't take most children very long to name a significantly, admired person in their life. This is someone whom they respect, adore, and admire. It is a necessity for children to have an adult in which they can trust and communicate with on a regular basis.
Parents and adults in general, can make a large difference in children's lives, simply by the way they communicate and respond to them. Every day, children are encountered with situations in which they need some adult to lead them or guide them in a particular direction. For instance, a teacher may instruct them on how to find an acute angle in math, or an English teacher might direct them in how to accurately cite a source during a research report. Non-core teachers, coaches, and club sponsors are leaders which play a crucial part in teaching children correct procedures for remembering plays, notes, or responsibilities. However, just like core subject teachers and parents; they are effective in instilling quality values and self-esteem in children's daily lives.
It is immensely important that parents talk with their children. Young people need directions for behaving the same as adults often need road maps for driving. Parents also should set high expectations that are reasonable and obtainable. Encourage them to reach for the stars! Yet, assist your children when they need help mastering certain goals. Expectations that are beyond their reach will only set them up for failure. When building your child's self-esteem, think positive while at the same time finding a way to help them except their mistakes. This is how they learn and grow! If they learn from their mistakes, they are less likely to repeat them.
Children need to feel good about who they are and what they can do in order to perform well. When teachers and parents entice youngsters to appreciate a quality education while showing them the value of learning, young people are more focused on learning the advanced skills and technical knowledge needed for today's changing economy. Acquiring an education today is much different than the procedures for obtaining one twenty years ago. Curriculum guidelines have changed, benchmark tests have been designed, graduation testing has been introduced, and more electives are offered.
In addition, children must be comfortable with reaching out to try new things while developing interests and discovering new talents. They must be taught to take risks and overcome their fears while tackling new obstacles. This will better prepare them for adulthood! Children's knowledge and talents, while nourished at home and in the classroom, can aid in producing successful children for the future.
Sonya Rogers is an independent columnist for the Atmore Advance and reports on educational issues. She may be reached by e-mail at newsroom@atmoreadvance.com