Wonders of literate parents

By Dyson Mthawanji | DVV International Malawi

When a parent is a guitarist, chances are high that the child will develop interest in playing a guitar. When the parent is a nurse, the child may dream of becoming a nurse someday. Based on this, it can be concluded that if parents are literate, chances are very high that their children will also value education. Furthermore, educated parents will take a lead in encouraging their children to take education seriously.

Parenting is the process of raising and nurturing a child from infancy to adulthood. It involves providing physical, emotional, and intellectual support to help children develop into healthy, well-adjusted individuals.

In modern society, education plays a vital role in shaping and influencing the overall progress of an individual and the nation. Because of this, parents have an important role to play in pushing their children to become educated.

Adult Learning and Education (ALE) plays a crucial role in parenting by providing parents with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to support their children's education effectively. When parents are well-informed and educated, they can positively influence their children's academic performance and motivation.

Literate parents understand the importance of education and can be enablers for their children’s learning. By expressing belief in their child's abilities and setting ambitious goals, literate parents can motivate their kids to strive for excellence in the classroom. Literate parents can also foster a supportive learning environment at home. This includes providing a quiet and organized space for studying, setting regular study schedules, and minimizing distractions. They can also demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning, showing enthusiasm and interest in their child's educational pursuits.

Monitoring progress and providing feedback is another initiative that literate parents can take. Literate parents can actively monitor their child's progress by reviewing report cards, attending parent-teacher meetings, and keeping an open line of communication with their child's teachers. They can provide constructive feedback and guidance to help their child improve academically.

Parents can help their children develop effective study habits by teaching them organizational skills, time management techniques, and the importance of regular revision. Literate parents can share their own learning experiences and study strategies, providing valuable insights and tips. As if that is not enough, literate parents can assist their children with homework by offering guidance, answering questions, and helping them understand difficult concepts. By showing an active interest in their child's assignments, parents can demonstrate the value of education and reinforce the importance of completing tasks.

In summary, literate parents can serve as role models and advocates for their children's education. By fostering a positive attitude towards learning, providing support, and actively engaging in their child's academic journey, educated parents can significantly contribute to their children's success in the classroom and in life.