4 Ways to Raise a Successful Student

Success is generally measured by social position and money. School success is quite different since successful students are often judged by high GPAs and scores on standardized exams. However, the Diocese of Orlando schools measure success in various ways. Our students strive to be spiritually, academically, socially, and physically successful. You can help your child achieve success in these categories with lessons and practice. Below are specific ideas for these different areas of success.SpirituallyPray. Pray frequently. Ask God for forgiveness and guidance before the bus arrives, at meals, before bed, and any time it feels appropriate to pray. A few whispered words fill the spirit with gratitude and feed the soul. Attend Mass on Sundays and on Holy Days of Obligation. Teach your child gratitude by thanking others, making eye contact, and saying a kind word to those who help in any way. Volunteer your time and talents to help others in your parish and community. AcademicallyOrganization is often overlooked in academics, but if a student is disorganized, 15 hours of studying may not be enough to ace a test. Teach your child to organize notes, thoughts, and habits. Study skills are also vital. Many students do not understand their learning styles (oral, aural, kinesthetic, or a combination thereof) and attempt to learn in a manner their brains are not adept at recognizing. Many online tests are available to determine your child’s learning style. Use a planner throughout middle and high-school to schedule reminders for assignments, project deadlines, exams, and other important dates. Check the planner with your child every night and compare it with your school’s Parent Portal, if applicable, to verify the assignments correlate.SociallyEven if your child is not a social butterfly, you can adopt social success by teaching her to look others in the eye, shake hands when meeting someone, smiling, addressing others politely, and responding when spoken to. Plan social outings such as play dates, birthday parties, or athletic events to socialize your child in a natural setting.Physically:Exercise is important for all children, although organized sports are not the only venue. When your child plays tag or climbs on playground equipment, the energy expended counts as exercise! Show your child the benefits of exercising by walking around the neighborhood (and playing Pokemon Go! if that motivates him/her) or riding your bikes together rather than driving a car. If she feels compelled to play organized sports, start with one sport and let her progress when she feels ready.The schools in the Diocese of Orlando strive to educate each student to be spiritually, academically, socially, and physically successful. Contact the Diocese at 407-246-4800 and ask about enrolling your child in one of our Catholic schools. Our blogs showcase many of our schools as well as ideas on how you can help your child thrive at home and at school.