Reading, writing, and math skills are the foundation for learning in all subjects. One of the most important things parents can do is help their children build these skills in their elementary school years. Parent and family engagement in your child’s education is a significant factor in dropout prevention.

When There’s a Problem

If your child is not doing well or is beginning to have behavioral problems in school:
• Monitor your child’s attendance and school performance. Periodically check in with your child’s teachers to find out how things are going.
• In some cases, a tutor can help a student who has fallen behind or who has missed important earlier concepts.
• Sometimes, a child’s personality may clash with that of the teacher or another student. Meet directly with the teacher to determine if there is a problem or if there has been a misunderstanding. In some cases, it may benefit everyone if you request that your child be transferred to a different classroom.
• Concentrate on your child’s goals. Instead of focusing on why he/she is unsuccessful in school, have your child identify his/her future goals; develop a list of school, home, and personal barriers to reaching those goals; and devise strategies to address the barriers.
• If you think your child may have a problem with drugs or alcohol, contact the school psychologist, social worker, or counselor, help line, or organization for information and advice.

*Excerpted from The Role of Parents in Dropout Prevention: Strategies that Promote Graduation and School Achievement, National Center on Secondary Education and Transition