by Marijane Suttor

Created on: November 20, 2008   Last Updated: June 23, 2010

Parents sit across the table from their child's English teacher distraught over the "D" their child is receiving in English. The parents plead their case and indicate how successful they were at English as they wonder how their child could struggle with the same subject. They ask the teacher for suggestions to help their child who is struggling with the course. There, of course, is the temptation to blame the teacher, the curriculum, or the school district, but it is quickly obvious that the solution must lie with the student.

These suggested methods are ones parents can use to assist their children with English.

Reduce Media/Technology

Reduce television, movies, text messaging, video and computer games and instant messaging. Although these stimulants are entertaining and fun, they do not lend themselves well to encouraging success in the English classroom. At times, they even produce an experience that has adverse effects. Text-messaging and instant messaging invariably affects the grammar of students. Students begin turning in formal papers without "I" capitalized or using "U" for the word "you". Reducing dependence on media and discussing the use and non-use of these characteristics will be important to the child's success in English.

Time Management

Encourage time management. Often times English scores can be directly proportional to how hard a student works on projects and papers. Poor scores can result from last minute preparation. Assist the child by discussing how much out of school time an English project or writing assignment might take. Then divide the tasks and steps into manageable time allotments. If it is decided that a project is due in one week and will take 5 hours to complete, the child can work one hour per night to complete the project with time to spare. If the child attempts to work five hours on one night to complete the assignment, there is a higher likelihood that the project will be less successful. Many students have a tendency to procrastinate and do experiences that are more enjoyable first. Parents can really assist their children by helping them to budget the time that is needed for completion. Eventually wean off assistance and hopefully by high school the child will have this necessary skill.

Appropriate Resources

Supply appropriate resources for the child. To assist a child with English projects and writing, make sure the child has access to update technology and programs. Most schools try to update their technology and it

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