When a stepdad comes into a child’s life, there’s usually an established bond between the child and their mother. So, the stepdad usually spends a portion of time learning and developing a relationship with the child.
In many instances, stepdads are perceived in a negative light. If you’re a stepdad, you can change this perception by being a very present and responsible source of encouragement in a child’s life.
Consider these five tips on how to help your step kids succeed in academics.
1. Positive Influence in Mother’s Life
One of the reasons why stepparents have a stigma attached to them is because they can negatively change the family dynamic. When a stepdad comes into the picture, the child might feel like they need to share their mother.
Instead, always be a positive influence by giving your wife the freedom to spend alone time with her children. This will pay dividends when you spend time alone with her – which is not a bad thing.
However, make sure there’s a strong emphasis on the children first. You never want to feel like you are taking valuable time away from children who need their mother.
Always be supportive of a mother’s desire and need to take care of her children. In fact, walk alongside her in that journey of parenthood.
2. Knowledge of Current Lessons
Find out what the stepchildren are learning about in school. Once you get a better understanding of what they’re studying, make it your job to learn about those topics as well.
If you find out that one of your stepchildren is learning more about biology, watch a few YouTube videos and read a few books on the specific areas that they’re focusing on in biology. When you have a working knowledge of what they’re learning, you’re able to have conversations and relate to them on those topics.
If nothing else, you should strive to help them develop the “four C’s of the 21st Century” which are:
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving,
- Communication,
- Creativity and Innovations, and
- Collaboration.
3. Study Sessions
Have study sessions with your children. If there’s a specific subject that one of the children is not doing well in, help them by finding helpful online tools and other educational resources.
Create flashcards covering the different vocabulary words they need to learn. Make their study sessions fun by creating sessions catering to their learning styles.
When you do this, studying won’t feel like a significant chore anymore. If it does, knowing you’re there to help them is encouragement enough.
4. Positive Reinforcements & Incentives
As the children pass tests and get good grades, make sure to give positive reinforcement. When they do well on a test, take them to go see a really great movie.
When they pass the class with flying colors, give them $100 to go shopping. Find ways to incentivize their learning, and this can motivate them to do better.
5. Reading Together
Reading is fundamental for so many reasons. Students have to read in order to pass classes and get through school.
Find ways to read books together. If your stepchildren are in the early elementary years, you can read to them and have them read to you.
If they’re in high school, find books you two can read together. When you foster a love and practice of reading, this will encourage their desire to learn.
As you work towards becoming the best step-father you can be, you’ll get a better understanding of how your stepchildren respond to different tactics. Be attentive, perceptive and willing to improve. As you do this, the job will become easier and more enjoyable.
Find more stepdad and stepdad related advice here!
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Learning to study and willingness to study are two completely different subjects when it comes to kids. Some kids simply don’t know how to study and they don’t have the best studying skills.
Click to get tips on helping your kids study.
