MGI and My Child: Parent Resources

Many research studies have shown that children do better in school when their parents are actively involved in their education. Here are some simple ways to help your child navigate the terrain of middle school and help them start thinking about their future dreams and goals.

How can I help my child do better in school?

There are many ways you can help your child succeed in school. Here are three simple things you can do at home every day:

• Ask your child about their day. What did they learn in social studies? What food was served for lunch? Did they have any tests or quizzes?
• Help your child with her homework. "Help" can include anything from teaching her a math concept she doesn't quite understand, to simply sitting down with her at a table or desk to supervise the homework. What's most important is the clear message that you expect your child to learn.
• Read with your child in the evenings and encourage other literacy activities at home. Reading should be enjoyable, so in the earlier years, magazines and comic books are fine reading material.

For more information on ways to help your child succeed in school, see these websites:

	NYCDOE Frequently Asked Questions for Parents The NYC Department of Education's Office for Family Engagement and Advocacy, created in July 2007, has answers to some questions about testing, policies, and curriculum.
	National Education Association's Parents and Community Page NEA, the nation's largest professional employee organization, is committed to advancing the cause of public education.
	Parent Teacher Association The PTA is a volunteer child advocacy association and provides parents and families with a powerful voice to speak on behalf of every child while providing the best tools for parents to help their children be successful students.

Can I really afford to send my child to college?

Yes! There are many resources out there to help you save money, access financial resources and navigate the financial aid landscape.

The best thing to do is to start saving money now.

Some financial resources are listed below. To see many more, click on "Students" above, then click on "Resources & Links" on the left.

	New Visions Scholarship Guide Scholarships for New York City students, 2009-2010.
	College$ense Explore this accessible and engaging tool that demystifies college financing.
	Think College Early The US Department of Education offers valuable tips on saving for college on their website.
	The College Board Offers strategies to parents about college costs, applying for scholarships and other types of financial aid, choosing the best aid package and taking out education loans.

*** NEW for Fall 2008:   CUNY/ MGI GEAR UP Print Resources ***

Here are some new things to look at, and to print, for the Fall 2008 semester. For optimum printing, choose 11x17 paper, landscape orientation, double-sided, and auto binding.

	CUNY MGI/GEAR UP NEWSLETTER In Spanish and English.
	Coloring Book -- Spanish ¡También Puedo Ir a La Universidad!
	Coloring Book -- English I can go to college too!

*** NEW for Spring 2009! ***

MGI HIGHLIGHTS OF 2008/2009

*** NEW for Fall 2009! ***

College Admissions 411 A series of 30-minute videos, in Spanish, focusing on college entrance & awareness. (Click on "Episodios".)