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like naked mole rats (true story), we facilitate the quest to gain more knowledge about the life and times of bare-naked mole rats. Books, websites and DVDs are obtained from the local library to learn everything there is to know about this weird little rodent.

As parents, we are responsible to make sure that are kids are at school on time and ready for the business of learning. The issue of chronic tardiness is mentioned in every monthly letter from our Principal. Too many students arrive to school late. They miss out on important instructions and daily lessons. As parents, it is OUR job to make sure that our children are on time. Just as it's important for parents to be on time to our jobs, it's important for our children to get to theirs on time, too. It is also our parental obligation to make sure that our children are fed and well-rested. It's difficult to learn, if your stomach is rumbling or you're sleeping with your eyes open. Likewise, as a parent it is your duty to instill the importance of education into your children. WE must teach them how and expect them to pay attention, to be polite, and to stay out of trouble while they are at school.

Be a good student yourself. Read every piece of paper that the school and your child's teacher sends home. There is valuable information in there, and it is your parental homework. Model good homework skills to your child, by doing your own.
Be available to answer questions and to look over their homework with them. Know what your child has learned each day. Some great conversations can spring from the simple question, "What did you learn today that you didn't know before?" Have your child read out loud to you. Being able to read is a lifelong skill, and one that I hear kids struggle with in the classroom everyday.

Yes, it takes time to be involved. Being a parent IS a time-consuming job, but it's the job you signed up for, and ultimately, it's the one that holds the most reward. Be there...be present...do your job. All of our futures depend on it.

Learn more about this author, Deborah Nies.
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