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Even in my youth, I knew that teaching children is both a calling and a gift and that God was calling me to the teaching profession. Heeding that call, I have spent more than twenty-five years in the classroom, working with students of various ages and abilities. Perhaps some of the lessons I have learned there, as well as from raising a daughter and son, may help other parents to improve their children's academic performance—and to emerge from the often tumultuous school years with sanity intact!
All parents want their children to develop the skills that will give them the best chance to be successful, independent, and secure in life. Besides grasping the basics of math, reading, and writing, we want them to be able to think clearly, analyze information, and make good decisions. It is critical to remember, though, that every one of our children is unique, with different potential and abilities to perform. Encouraging individual strengths and helping our children to cope with and overcome their weaker areas will require a great deal of love, attention, and patience.
Another word of realism: Children are children, and it is normal for them to go through periods of apathy. They may have skills and interests in certain subjects and little enthusiasm for others.
I have faced these struggles in my own family. Despite my long…
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