Most parents genuinely want their kids to do well in school, and there is a great deal that parents can do, to make school success more likely. This may seem like an odd time to talk about our kids in school, since most school-age children in the Northern Hemisphere are on summer vacation right now. But there is no better time to start preparing them for next school year, than right now.

First, and far above all else, find out how to build your child's self-esteem and work at it steadily. There is nothing more important than strong, warranted self-esteem for success in school, or anywhere else for that matter.

Second, get personally involved. Your kids may try to persuade you to back off, but parental involvement is something that they really do need and want. Get to know their teachers. Ask both child and teacher about what goes on in class and listen attentively to their answers. 

Spend time reading their schoolbooks with them. And yes, check on them. Ensure that they have a good place to work and help them keep track of assignments so they get done on time. Review assignments and tests with them when they come back, praise their success, and correct mistakes. 

Teach them how to break large tasks down into smaller, more manageable chunks, how to assign priorities, and the importance of rewarding themselves when they accomplish a goal. Perhaps you've heard some of this advice before, but it's good to re-emphasize that these things work!

If you do the things consistently, they will have a significant, positive effect on your child's success in school, in the workplace, and in life.