Parents often go to principals to ask for help in supporting their gifted children. They may request acceleration for their child in mathematics, a specialized curriculum or course, extracurricular activities, a pullout program, or even a different teacher. Since misconceptions about identifying gifted students are prevalent, it's important that…

An amusing article in which a mother describes the mishaps that befall her when she tries to learn to use one of the local school's microcomputers. (JM)

Regardless of income, families can provide a rich learning environment. A Massachusetts elementary principal has discovered several home conditions that promote students' academic success. Having high expectations and preparing children to work hard top the list. Other factors are close family relationships, reading at home, parent/school…

When surveying parents on six types of involvement, the Family Center at Johns Hopkins University found that respondents were uninterested in regular school visits or participation in decision making but eager to help their children at home. In response, two researchers developed TIPS (Teachers Involve Parents in Schoolwork), an interactive…

Research findings indicate that homework gives parents a window on their children's school work and that families reshape their activities around homework. Principals, teachers, and parents need to cooperate in making homework policy and in deciding goals, evaluating present policies, and individualizing assignments. (MLF)

A mother's literacy is the best predictor of a child's academic success. However, intimidated, undereducated parents are unlikely to become involved in their children's learning. The most promising family literacy programs provide intensive, multifaceted literacy services for the whole family. Sample Kenan Model programs are adult basic skills…

The Parents as First Teachers project successfully teaches Missouri parents to enhance their children's cognitive development. The project recruited 300 first-time parents in its first year, then provided them with educational support and guidance during their children's first three years, while monitoring the children's progress. (PGD)

Discusses a survey asking parents of 85 4th- through 6th-grade students to describe how their child learns best, based on emotional, sociological, physiological, and environmental elements of the Dunns' Learning Style Inventory. Statistical analysis found no significant correlations between parental perceptions of a child's learning style and the…

A three-part intervention program for coping with antisocial children is examined. The three parts include parent training, academic remediation, and coping skills. (12 references) (SI)

Describes the designs and the rewards in four elementary reading incentive programs. Offers tips for starting a reading incentive program. (IW)

After spending six years studying elementary schools of 10 countries noted for educational excellence (Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United States), the authors reveal world-class standards they have identified for time-on-task, curriculum, assessment, parenting, and student behavior.…

Provides examples of many innovative ways principals can establish a "reading climate" in their schools. Includes ways to involve parents, community members, school libraries, and teachers in reading enjoyment programs. Discusses some of the most successful techniques for teaching reading. (IW)