Raising A's by Sylvia Gail Kinard, Esq.

Now that the London Olympics are over and we begin our own rituals to celebrate (or commiserate) the end of summer, one image remains fixed in my mind: parents!  Whether it was a cameo shot of Fab Five families cheering their gymnasts to victory or Michael Phelps mom dancing a jig as he swam his way into Olympic history with 22 medals - parents were front and center. 

Some were single parents, some married and some grandparents - but what they shared in common was the huge role they each played in laying the foundation for these athletic stars success.Parenting styles are as varied as the colors of the rainbow.  There are Tiger Moms, Helicopter Parents, Attachment Parents and Authoritative Parents. 

Whatever your family philosophy may be, the most important thing is that you take a positive approach to your child's development and have a clear, consistent success strategy that everyone in the family understands and buys into.It may not be your child's goal to compete in the Olympics, but as we begin another school year, every parent can learn a few lessons from Olympic mom and dads about how to motivate and prepare your children to do their academic and personal best.  You CAN raise A's.

Success Strategy #1 - Go All In

Many of the Olympic champions had home videos of their first attempts at the pool or on the balance beam from when they were as young as 3 or 5 years old.  These home videos are prima facie evidence that their parents and gone all in - from day one.  Did these parents know that their lil' Pumpkin would one day grow up to become a world-class athlete?  Of course not. But what is clear is that these parents had an attitude that they would be 100% supportive of the development of their children's gifts, talents and abilities.  Get involved 100%. Go all in with your kids.

Success Strategy #2 - Make Your Home Success Friendly

Just as a rose cannot grow in a desert, children need a stable, organized environment to grow up in.  You can make small changes that will create a home culture that is success friendly.   Is your home neat and orderly?  Is there a consistent schedule for homework and study?  Do you model good behavior by having a positive attitude about your own life and advancement?  Do you plan family activities that are both fun and educational?  Are there limits to television and recreational computer use?  Think of yourself as the coach of a great team and your children are the star players.  Talk about your ideas with your family.  think of ways that you can work together to achieve your goals.  Aim for the moon and you may hit the stars!

Success Strategy #3 - Find the Source for Every Resource

In these tough economic times, it is not always easy to find money in the family budget for piano lessons or tutors - however, there are a number of free or low-cost resources available.  Become like Sherlock Holmes to discover hidden resources and programs that will help your children develop their God given gifts, talents and abilities.The Brooklyn Public Library has a literacy initiative for children.  More information can be found at www.everychildreadytoread.org.  The United Federation of Teacher's "Dial-A-Teacher" program offers free homework service for elementary and middle school children.  For more information call (212) 777-3380 or www.uft.org.

Moreover, your participation in the community life of their school will help your children understand the importance and value of education.  Make it a priority to attend parent-teacher conferences  or send cupcakes for the school bake sale.  Your presence will make a difference not only in your children's attitude towards school, but in the school's attitude towards your children.  Your presence tells educators that you value your children's education and that you will hold teachers accountable for their role in your child's academic success.

You are your children's first coach and greatest cheerleader.  The most important resource you have to help your children succeed is your unconditional love, time and unwavering support.  Have a great year!