Parents can help improve their children's math skills by being positive, playing games, avoiding stereotypes, choosing gifts that promote learning, providing information on career choices, reading books that use math, connecting math to the real world, encouraging problem solving, talking with teachers, and visiting museums, libraries, and other…

Three checklists help parents, teachers, and school administrators think about what constitutes a good elementary school science program and about their respective roles in promoting and supporting such a program. The lists focus on home and classroom environment, professional commitment, philosophy, curriculum and assessment, outside support,…

Regardless of career choice, all students will need to be mathematically powerful to fully participate in daily living. How parents can ensure that schools adequately prepare children for the future is discussed. The need for parents to encourage success in mathematics is emphasized. (MT)

The purpose of a child's participation in a science fair is to experience learning. Seven steps to creating a successful project are described. (MT)

After discussing three recent reports that examined the effects on child health of using pesticides in produce, the article suggests effective measures for parents, schools, and communities to follow to provide families with safe food and a safe living environment. (SM)

The most important things parents can do to help children succeed in school are listening and talking with them, showing pride in academic achievement, encouraging them with homework, helping them perceive themselves as capable problem solvers, and instilling a strong work ethic. An insert presents tips for building self-esteem. (SM)

Parents can help ensure that their elementary school students' science programs meet their needs. The article discusses the characteristics of a good science program, explains how parents can advocate for a good science program, and looks at the role of the PTA in supporting quality science programs. (SM)

Suggests family activities related to moral values: (1) instilling the giving habit; (2) using stories and games to trigger moral reflection; (3) encouraging earth ethics; (4) developing the moral opinion habit; (5) making moral reminders part of the home decor; (6) using every opportunity to teach; and (7) sharing holidays with others. (GLR)

Sleepy students may not reach their full potential. Most sleepiness results from sleep disorders, circadian factors, or schedules with too little sleep. Consequences of sleepiness include decreased performance, worsened mood, and potential for danger. Parents and professionals must understand the need for sleep and help students obtain enough…

The number of accidental deaths and injuries could be reduced if more children knew how to identify potentially dangerous situations, respond effectively to emergencies, and properly treat common injuries. Parents must teach their children self-care and safety skills, demonstrating, guiding, and praising the children as they practice the skills.…

Inhalant abuse often starts as young as sixth grade. Inhalants are attractive to children because they are cheap and accessible. Though inhalant use has significant consequences, many parents fail to recognize the signs of abuse. The article suggests how to prevent inhalant abuse or intervene when there is a problem. A list of products abusers…

Examines ways in which a parent can measure and help to create a school environment that projects a positive climate in which a child can learn and grow. Suggestions are offered for setting up a school climate committee and for operating such a committee. (GLR)

Research indicates an increased prevalence of suicide in young children. Suicidal children have unique characteristics related to developmental stages. The problem persists as children grow and may have serious social consequences. Children can be protected against suicidal behavior by adequate social support. The article includes guidelines for…

Explains the educational rights that exist for special needs children and ways that parents can advocate to obtain appropriate services. Benefits of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) are explained as well as what to do if the parent disagrees with the IEP assessment. (GLR)

Parents must help their children distinguish between wants and needs and put them in a balanced perspective. Children need to learn to respect differences in people rather than base their judgments on socioeconomic status. The article suggests ways parents can grab teachable moments to reinforce their values and decisions. (SM)