Two of our SKIpgo scholars with their families.

When we’re choosing girls to participate in our scholarship program, one of the most important factors we look for is their guardians’ commitment to education. We seek out parents and grandparents who will not only support their child as they begin their journey in education, but will go the extra mile by supplementing that education at home.

Not sure how to do this? Here are some tips:

1. Point out words in your everyday surroundings, and ask your child to spell them out.

2. Ask your child’s teacher for resources you can use at home.

3. Give your child independent tasks to grow their confidence; resist fixing their mistakes.

4. Get involved in your child’s school when you can, whether than means volunteering in the classroom or attending school events.

5. Use humor and fun voices to make reading aloud together a special experience.

6. Know when to quit. If your child is no longer enjoying a home learning experience, stop and try again another day.

7. Make a point to ask your child about their school day every day, so they learn that education is important to you. If they know you take it seriously, they’ll take it seriously, too.

8. Encourage free play! Having unstructured time to play is essential in your child’s development and will help them learn better.