Across the Director’s Desk

Whether they live next door, in the next town or thousands of miles away, grandparents can play an important role in children's educations. Mary

Brintnall-Peterson, a University of Wisconsin-Extension specialist on aging, said a recent national survey of school principals believe grandparents are important to a child's success in school. Perhaps, you can help give that needed boost to your grandchild (or any child) to help them finish out the school year.

Ms. Peterson lists some strategies grandparents can use to help their grandchild.

Ask children about events in their lives and at school. Keep in touch with school activities. Rather than ask how school is going, be specific. Ask children what book they are reading, what their favorite part of the school day is, or what they are studying. If children are studying a certain time period, share experiences from your own life in that period or what you learned in school about that time. Write notes to your grandchildren, even if you live nearby, passing along a favorite joke or asking a specific question. Ask children's opinions about current events or issues the kids are studying in class. Send e-mail to them.

Praise children, not for their accomplishments but for their effort. Tell your grandchildren why you are praising them if they put special effort.

Avoid comparisons between siblings or between your adult children and your grandchildren. Look beyond sports to praise your grandkids on a variety of things -- how they played fairly, for following rules or listening carefully.

Write a special note or invite your grandchildren on a special outing for their effort.

Participate in your grandchildren's school. If you live far away, try to plan a visit during a special school activity. If you can't attend a special event, come to school with your grandchild. Meet the teacher, or ask to read a book to the class. You might want to share a hobby with the class or be a volunteer at school.

Learn, both by yourself and with your grandchildren. Grandparents can be wonderful role models for children by demonstrating how to be lifelong learners. Read with your grandchild, cook together, or take a class on a topic that interests you. Explain to grandchildren how to learn from mistakes and how to continue learning, even after leaving school.

Encourage your grandchildren in their future plans and goals. Let your grandkids know you believe in them. Demonstrate how to be confident and relaxed.

If you as a grandparent are raising your grandchildren, it is also important to know the schools and teachers. Get involved in your grandchildren's homework, read together, make school work a priority and stay in contact with the school.