Introduction

Behind every successful student, there is often a supportive parent or guardian. While teachers provide instruction in the classroom, the role of parents in shaping a child’s academic journey cannot be overstated. Research consistently shows that children whose parents are actively involved in their education perform better academically, socially, and emotionally.

At Verbum Dei Academy, we believe education is a partnership between the school and the home. Together, teachers and parents provide the balance of guidance, encouragement, and structure that children need to thrive.

Why Parents Are Key to Academic Success

1. First Teachers at Home

Long before a child steps into a classroom, parents are their first educators—teaching them to speak, read, and interact with the world. This early involvement builds a foundation for future academic achievement.

2. Motivation and Encouragement

Parental praise and support build a child’s confidence, motivating them to work harder in school. A child who feels valued is more likely to persevere in academics.

3. Monitoring and Accountability

When parents take interest in homework, tests, and school projects, children develop a sense of accountability, knowing their efforts matter both at school and at home.

4. Emotional and Social Support

Beyond academics, parents provide stability and encouragement that help children cope with challenges such as peer pressure or academic setbacks.

Verbum Dei Academy’s Partnership with Parents

At Verbum Dei Academy, we foster strong parent–school collaboration through:

1. Parent–Teacher Meetings – Regular sessions keep parents updated on academic progress and areas of improvement.
2. Workshops and Seminars – We organize sessions where parents learn strategies to support learning at home.
3. Open Communication Channels – Teachers and parents maintain close communication, ensuring concerns are addressed promptly.
4. Family-Oriented School Events – Programs like cultural days, sports events, and exhibitions strengthen bonds between school, students, and families.

Practical Ways Parents Can Support Academic Success

1. Create a Conducive Learning Environment

Provide a quiet, organized study area at home, free from distractions like TV or excessive phone use.

2. Establish Routines

Children benefit from consistent schedules for study, rest, and play. A regular routine teaches discipline and time management.

3. Supervise Homework and Projects

Parents don’t need to solve every problem but should guide, encourage, and ensure assignments are completed on time.

4. Encourage Reading

Reading together or providing books fosters literacy, comprehension, and curiosity.

5. Communicate Positively About School

When parents speak positively about education and teachers, children develop respect for learning.

6. Promote Healthy Habits

Proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep all directly influence academic performance and concentration.

The Balance: Support vs. Pressure

While involvement is essential, excessive pressure can backfire. Parents should encourage excellence without making children feel overwhelmed or fearful of failure. At Verbum Dei Academy, we emphasize celebrating effort as much as results, helping children view learning as a joyful journey.

Success Stories from Verbum Dei Academy

Many of our top-performing pupils credit their success not only to dedicated teachers but also to supportive parents who encouraged reading, reinforced discipline, and attended school events. This teamwork between home and school has produced pupils who excel academically and socially.

Long-Term Benefits of Parental Involvement

Children with involved parents:

• Score higher in tests and exams.
• Develop stronger problem-solving skills.
• Show better behavior and confidence in school.
• Are more likely to pursue higher education successfully.

By working hand-in-hand with Verbum Dei Academy, parents help shape children into not just good students, but lifelong learners.

Conclusion

Academic success is never the work of the school alone—it is the result of a collaborative effort between teachers and parents. At Verbum Dei Academy, we value this partnership deeply, creating an environment where children are supported both at home and in school.

When school and home work together, children rise higher. At Verbum Dei Academy, we invite parents to be active partners in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.

Introduction

Books are more than pages filled with words—they are gateways to knowledge, imagination, and lifelong learning. In a world where technology and fast media often dominate children’s attention, nurturing a strong reading culture has become more important than ever.

At Verbum Dei Academy, we believe that developing a love for reading early in life not only boosts academic performance but also shapes character, creativity, and confidence. That’s why we place reading at the heart of our educational journey for young learners.

Why Reading Culture Matters for Children

1. Boosts Academic Achievement
   Children who read regularly develop stronger vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills, which reflect positively across all subjects.
2. Builds Imagination and Creativity
   Reading stories introduces children to new worlds, characters, and possibilities, sparking creativity and innovation.
3. Develops Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
   Through books, children learn to understand and relate to the emotions and experiences of others.
4. Strengthens Concentration and Focus
   Unlike digital distractions, reading requires sustained attention, helping children develop patience and focus.
5. Promotes Lifelong Learning
   A reading habit lays the foundation for continuous growth, curiosity, and adaptability in life.

How Verbum Dei Academy Promotes a Reading Culture

1. Classroom Libraries

Each classroom is equipped with age-appropriate books that encourage daily reading habits.

2. Reading Time in the Daily Schedule

Dedicated reading periods allow children to develop a habit of exploring books beyond textbooks.

3. Storytelling Sessions

Teachers engage pupils in interactive storytelling, bringing books to life and making reading exciting.

4. Reading Competitions and Challenges

From spelling bees to book reviews, friendly competitions motivate children to improve their reading skills.

5. Access to a Rich Library

Our central school library offers a wide range of storybooks, reference materials, and educational resources.

6. Digital Literacy Resources

We integrate technology by providing e-books and audio books, ensuring children adapt to modern reading tools.

Examples of Reading Initiatives at Verbum Dei Academy

• Book Review Presentations – Pupils summarize and share insights from books they’ve read.
• Buddy Reading – Older pupils read alongside younger ones, promoting mentorship and collaboration.
• Themed Reading Weeks – Events where pupils dress as favorite book characters or engage in reading marathons.
• Author Spotlights – Introducing children to inspiring authors who broaden their understanding of literature.

How Parents Can Support Reading Culture at Home

1. Create a Reading Corner – A quiet space with books encourages children to read regularly.
2. Be a Reading Role Model – Children copy what they see. When parents read, children are inspired to do the same.
3. Limit Screen Time – Replacing excessive TV or phone use with reading helps reinforce good habits.
4. Read Aloud Together – Family reading sessions build bonds and improve comprehension.
5. Celebrate Reading Milestones – Reward children for finishing books to keep them motivated.

Success Stories from Parents and Teachers

At Verbum Dei Academy, many parents report that their children who once resisted reading now ask for books as gifts. Teachers also observe noticeable improvements in language fluency, storytelling ability, and classroom participation among pupils who actively engage in reading programs.

Long-Term Impact of a Strong Reading Culture

Children who grow up loving books often become:

• Independent learners who thrive academically.
• Innovative thinkers with creative problem-solving skills.
• Compassionate individuals with high emotional intelligence.
• Adults who pursue lifelong learning and personal growth.

At Verbum Dei Academy, we see reading not only as a skill but as a gift that transforms lives.

Conclusion

In a rapidly changing world, a strong reading culture gives children the tools to succeed, adapt, and flourish. At Verbum Dei Academy, we are committed to nurturing lifelong readers who will grow into knowledgeable, imaginative, and empathetic adults.

At Verbum Dei Academy, reading is not just taught—it’s celebrated as a way of life.