Dear Parents and Carers,
We are now in the season of Lent, a time to prepare ourselves for Easter, through fasting, prayer and giving to the poor. Let us help each other be open to the grace of God, so that we become more loving, more forgiving, more gentle, more compassionate and more humble. Let us help each other so that our hearts be transformed into the Heart of Jesus, and that the face of our school community becomes more like the face of Jesus.
10 ways to help your children succeed
1) Talk with your children- talk early and often, provide them with information, feedback, a sympathetic ear, good advice based on family values, support rather than criticism. They will come to you throughout their lives for guidance if their early experiences are positive.
2) Set high, but realistic expectations. No-one knows better than you your children's true abilities. Note their strengths and talents and gently encourage them. identify where they need assistance and find help for them. Assist them in setting realistic self-expectations.
3) Build your children's sense of self-worth. As children grow and make choices they will make mistakes. Knowing they have your unconditional love and support whatever happens will help them pick themselves up and start again when things go wrong.
4) Keep your children healthy. Children who do well at school come to class rested, well-fed and emotionally prepared. Children who are well-nourished in every respect have the foundation for success.
5) Support learning at home. Involvement in your child's learning starts at home. Create the conditions for good learning - books, computer, quite study area, library membership, time set aside for homework, interest in progress and reports.
6) Communicate with school. Teachers who never hear from parents often assume they are not interested. Attend meetings. Read notices and newsletters. Offer help. Send polite notes to your children's teacher.
7) Encourage a spirit of inquiry. Show your children what a wonderful place the world is. Visit parks, museums, art galleries. There's plenty of free entertainment and exploration available. Curiosity about the world around them is the first step to children's thirst for knowledge.
8) Build friendships. Children want to fit in and feel they belong. Welcome their friends to your home. Show your children how to be good friends.Teach them the differences between true friendship and popularity.
9) Keep your children safe. Identify risks and hazards and show your children how to avoid them. Children develop a sense of security when they are taught what to do if they are in danger.
10) Speak well of teachers and schools. Children learn their attitudes from you and will like and respect their teachers if they see you do the same.
Warm regards
Phil Mahony
