Sometimes we spend too much time and energy listening to what experts say we should do as parents. Oftentimes it is our kids who tell us what they need the most!
Check out these real-life student comments submitted by ParentLife writer, Mia Pinson, a middle school teacher in South Carolina. Their assignment was to write down advice they would give their parents to help them be a better student in school.
Listen to what some students said they really want from their parents:
• Help me with homework.
• Don’t ignore me when I ask for help.
• Help me study so I don’t have to make bad grades. I am embarrassed when I do.
• Don’t yell at me when I don’t understand my homework.
• Don’t scream at me if I mess up.
• Don’t yell at me to wake me up in the morning. It starts me off in a bad mood.
• Reward me for good grades with a surprise.
• Please congratulate me more.
• Be happy when I make a good grade.
• When I tell you the truth about something, don’t go and try to fix me.
• Spend time with me. Talk to me about school.
• Don’t fuss if I get a C on my report card and I tried my best.
• Don’t make me feel bad because I am not smart.
• Stand up for me. Show other people you are proud of me.
• Show me how to love school.
• Pay more attention to me. Encourage me to do well.
• Thank you for always asking me what my day was like and for trying to understand me.
• Thank you for saying you love me.
This list is humbling to me as a Dad. I think it shows that, no matter the context, our kids need our love, help, support, and encouragement. And it makes me want to ask my sons, “How could Daddy be a better parent?” I think they would say, “You’re too busy. Play with us more!”
What do you think your kids would say?
William Summey is Project Leader of ParentLife magazine and does love to play with his boys, ages 8 and 13. Check out the ParentLife blog and get regular updates on the ParentLife Facebook page or from Twitter – @ParentLife.