This November 12, Primary Education Day in Peru, is the perfect opportunity for parents or guardians to reinforce their role as key allies in the learning of young children. Primary education is the foundation of our children’s future, and even though they are at school they get knowledge.
According to Ximena Pastor, Pedagogical Advisor at Colegio de la Inmaculada, primary education represents much more than the beginning of an academic process; It is an essential step in the comprehensive training of children. “During these early years, students not only learn to read, write and do calculations, but also develop values and social skills that will mark their future path. At home, parents have the opportunity to complement and enrich this learning by actively participating in their studies, building a strong foundation for their confidence,” he said.
So, just like teachers in the classroom, parents or guardians can be transformative agents in their children’s education, helping them to become responsible and critical citizens. The specialist shares six effective tips to contribute to quality education from home.
- Create an ideal study space: Let the children have a fixed place to do their homework and activities, encouraging focus and study habits. You don’t need a full office, just a small space where your children can be quiet, with good lighting and no distractions. You will see how his performance improves!
- Establish a learning routine: Routines help children organize their time and learn to be responsible for their homework. Include breaks, reading time and play time in the schedule to make learning a fun and balanced experience. A study routine of 20-30 minutes a day makes a big difference.
- Along with it, not only supervision: Make homework time an opportunity to connect with your children. Being with them doesn’t mean giving them the answers, it means encouraging them to think and solve problems for themselves. Ask them what they have learned, help them ask questions, and encourage them to explain topics in their own words.
- Take advantage of digital resources: There are hundreds of free learning platforms and applications that could complement the work of teachers. Reading apps, language learning apps, math games, or even small experiments can be valuable tools for children to explore outside of the classroom.
- Encourage reading: Reading is the basis of all learning, and at home it can be encouraged by creating the habit of reading together or spending a few minutes a day alone. It allows children to choose the books or magazines they want to read, since the motivation to engage with text and make it enjoyable is essential to encourage this habit. Also, the importance of reading is shown in school libraries, which are important spaces for children’s academic and personal development. “At Colegio de la Inmaculada, the library is the Center for Educational Resources for Learning (CREA), which allows our students to develop independent research and resource selection skills. With activities such as storytelling, picnic reading, creative writing and poems, among others, it is an ally in inclusive education,” said the expert.
- Contact your teachers: Collaboration between parents and teachers is essential to identify needs, reinforce topics and provide adequate support. Stay in touch with teachers to identify opportunities to improve your child’s learning, so you are aware of their progress in the classroom.
“The mission of Colegio de la Inmaculada is to promote a comprehensive approach to education, as well as prioritizing academic performance, which prioritizes the emotional and social development of students. For example, at the first level we have a reading plan in English and Spanish, where they bring home a book every week with the aim that children can form reading habits and promote quality moments with their parents. “This shows the importance given to the participation of parents in the educational process, strengthening the family-school relationship,” Finished priest.
It should be noted that the Ministry of Education (Minedu) has declared this holiday, starting in 2022, as a date to value the importance and importance of the basic level of education as a basic foundation in the comprehensive development of minors.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Ximena Pastor, Pedagogical Advisor at Colegio de la Inmaculada
Editor: Hello, Ximena! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the vital role of parents in children’s primary education, especially as we celebrate Primary Education Day in Peru. Can you start by explaining why this day is so significant for parents and guardians?
Ximena Pastor: Absolutely! Primary Education Day is a wonderful opportunity for parents to recognize their pivotal role in their children’s learning journey. It’s a day that highlights how education begins at home and how parents can actively participate in their child’s development. The foundational years are crucial, not just for academic learning but for fostering values and social skills that will shape their children’s futures.
Editor: That’s insightful. You mentioned that parents can be transformative agents in their children’s education. What are some effective strategies they can employ at home to enhance their child’s learning experience?
Ximena Pastor: Great question! Here are six strategies that can make a significant difference:
- Create an Ideal Study Space: It’s essential for children to have a dedicated area that is quiet and well-lit for homework and activities. A distraction-free environment encourages better focus and study habits.
- Establish a Learning Routine: Consistent routines help children manage their time efficiently. Incorporating breaks and even playtime within their study routine makes learning a balanced and enjoyable experience.
- Engage Beyond Supervision: During homework time, parents shouldn’t just supervise; they should engage. This means encouraging children to think critically and solve problems independently, rather than simply providing answers.
- Leverage Digital Resources: There is an abundance of free educational platforms and applications that can complement traditional learning. These tools, from reading apps to math games, allow children to explore and learn beyond the classroom.
- Encourage Reading: Developing a reading habit can be one of the most beneficial things for a child’s education. Parents can foster this by reading together or allowing their child to choose books that interest them.
- Utilize Educational Libraries: School libraries, like ours at Colegio de la Inmaculada, serve as invaluable resource centers. They support children’s academic and personal growth, promoting a love for reading and learning.
Editor: Those tips are incredibly practical! What do you think is the most challenging aspect for parents when it comes to contributing to their child’s education?
Ximena Pastor: One significant challenge is finding the time and balance in their busy lives. Parents often juggle work, household responsibilities, and personal commitments, making it tough to dedicate quality time to their children’s education. However, even short, consistent interactions can have a profound impact. It’s all about the quality of engagement rather than the quantity.
Editor: That’s a valuable perspective. As we wrap up, how can parents and educators collaborate to create a supportive learning environment for children?
Ximena Pastor: Collaboration between parents and educators is key. Regular communication is essential—teachers can share curriculum goals, while parents can provide insights into their child’s learning preferences and challenges. Workshops and school events can also help bridge the gap, allowing families to engage in the educational process together. It’s all about forming a partnership focused on the child’s well-being and development.
Editor: Thank you, Ximena, for sharing your expertise with us today. Your insights are sure to inspire parents and reinforce their role in shaping their children’s education!
Ximena Pastor: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing such an important topic. Together, we can create a brighter future for our children.