The Difference: Money vs. Time

I was listening to the radio the other day when I heard T.D. Jakes make an important announcement. During one of his thoughts for the day he stated that research had revealed the differences between test scores among children of varying economic backgrounds and different races. Most people suspect that money plays a big role in these type of statistics. Our thinking is typically, the more money you have the better off your children are. But while having access to funds can be important, it isn't the main difference in test scores and overall success rates of school-aged children.

The difference is time. The study showed that the amount of time parents invest in their children is directly related to how well their kids do in school and specifically on standardized tests. The study was most amazing because I've never heard it put that plainly. So in other words, as parents, relatives and friends we've got to give the children in our lives a lot more of our time. I've heard this before from older, wiser parents just as a child-rearing tip. But it is my first time hearing it from a study.

Children thrive when they feel loved and secure. When we spend time with them we should emphasize the importance of education by helping them with homework and making sure that they get it done. We can let them know the consequences of not working hard and recognize when they need tutoring or help with a subject. Most schools and churches offer some amount of free assistance for students. We need only ask. Parents with preschoolers can visit the library regularly, quiz the child with flashcards, play age appropriate learning games together and encourage imaginative play time. Turn on the TV as little as possible.

We should also start eating meals together more often, enjoying fun family outings, and just listening to each other. This allows children to get to know and love their family members. Ultimately, the children will learn to trust that we have their best interest at heart. These feelings of well being can lead them to do better in school and possibly other areas of their lives.

This is a positive message for chidren everywhere and it really couldn't hurt to give it a try. The difference in your child 's education is what's at stake.

Many Blessings,
Polly