Table of Contents
Introduction
Parents sought international schools for their high academic standards and unique learning environments. Such schools offer exposure to different cultures, languages, and ideas to prepare students for a globalised world. They offer an exceptionally diverse ecosystem for students to build a distinct identity for themselves.
However, a parent’s responsibility does not end with admitting their child into an international school. In fact, it is where the real responsibility begins! International schools like MIT Gurukal offer children a chance to explore their full potential, and it is only possible with adequate parental support. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of parental support for students and how it impacts what we do at the school.
What is the Role of Parents in Student Learning?
Parents play an important role in shaping the learning journey of their child. They are not just supporters but active partners to provide supportive encouragement and guidance. From helping with homework to encouraging curiosity through everyday experiences; parents set the tone for a positive attitude toward learning. Their involvement builds confidence and motivates consistent effort to help children develop crucial skills like problem solving and time management. At MIT Gurukul, we believe that teacher-parent collaboration enhances the desired educational outcomes. By staying engaged, celebrating achievements and supporting challenges; parents can offer a meaningful and enjoyable learning experience to their child. It also creates a strong foundation for lifelong growth.
Role of Parental Support for Students at International Schools
The support of the parents is paramount for students to thrive at international schools. It is common for students to feel a bit overwhelmed by the variety of subject matter they encounter at school. Hence, parental support is of utmost importance to make them feel safe and confident. Let us explore further what role it plays below.
Emotional and Academic Support: Key Parental Roles
Emotional security and academic support at home are the foundation for a student’s success at school. Home should be the place where a child can freely express their feelings without judgment. Actively listen to your child’s concerns and validate their feelings. Celebrate small wins and create a safe space where they are not afraid to fail and try again. Your child must know you are proud of them, no matter what.
It is also important to encourage and entertain your child’s curiosity. Ask them about their day, what they learnt, and what they did. The key here is not to get too invasive but to let your child know they can talk to you.
Bridging Cultural and Value Systems
International schools expose your child to multiple traditions, beliefs, and perspectives. As a parent, you play a dual role: helping your child embrace this diversity while also grounding them in their cultural heritage.
It is important to encourage open-mindedness while also maintaining your heritage. Encourage your child to learn new things, but also ensure they speak their native language and celebrate traditional festivals to stay grounded.
Building a Strong Home-School Partnership
Parents and teachers are more of a team than two separate entities. It is important that parents communicate actively with the teachers and the school. Read school newsletters, emails, and portal updates to stay informed. You can also be a part of the Parent-Teacher Association to connect with other parents.
Most importantly, trust the teachers to do their jobs effectively as professionals. Keep in touch with the teachers to ensure you can get updates and raise a concern whenever required.
Fostering Independent Learning Habits at Home
International schools aim to develop independent, self-motivated learners, and this process starts at home. A parent’s role is to create an environment that nurtures autonomy and responsibility. It is crucial to establish a routine at home that guides students without restricting them.
Parents should offer children opportunities to explore solutions and ideas while guiding them along the way instead of offering them the solution outright.
Tech-Savvy Parenting in the Digital Age
International schools are often at the forefront of integrating technology into learning. Hence, effective parental support for students requires digital literacy. It is important that parents understand tools like Google Classroom, Zoom, etc., so they can monitor their child’s progress.
Additionally, parents must learn about privacy, cyberbullying, and appropriate online behaviour to guide their children in the right direction. Monitoring your child’s online behaviour is important to safeguard them and ensure they are using the internet productively.
Challenges Faced by Parents and How to Overcome Them
Supporting your child in an international school can get challenging. You may feel frustrated or not enough. It is normal to feel isolated and not understand what is going on at times.
However, keeping yourself updated, studying the school curriculum, and networking with other parents can help. Also, ask as many questions as you want when attending school events to stay on top of things. Such efforts will surely help overcome the challenges of offering parents support to students.
Conclusion
MIT Gurukul, one of the best international schools in Pune, focuses on a child’s academic, personal, social, and emotional development. However, our efforts are only complete when the child gets supported by the parents. Parental support for students is the ultimate investment in their future, ensuring they can confidently navigate and contribute to the nuances of international schooling. To know more about how you can support our child, get in touch with us for further guidance and resources!
