A network of nursery and primary schools in underserved communities, Bridge Nigeria has noted that evidence-based educational approaches as well as parental involvement in child learning helps in the holistic development of a child’s social, emotional and academic needs that is needed to build a solid foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing.
A spokesperson at Bridge Nigeria stated that Bridge uses a teaching and learning approach that involves age-appropriate learning, by adapting to a child’s level of understanding, identifying the readiness of a child to learn, and then following the best-suited method of teaching.
He added that Children especially during the Early childhood care and education (ECCE) are highly influenced by the environment and the people that surround them, therefore, Bridge ensures that parents are actively involved in their child’s development and academic success.
Recently, Bridge organised a Parent Fest event across all its 46 Bridge International Academies in Lagos and Osun state to sensitise parents on the need to play an integral role in assisting their children’s learning and for parents to articulate the responsibilities they will uphold in their child’s education.
Unlike typical PTA meetings, the Parent Fest gave the new and returning parents an opportunity to learn how to help extend teaching outside the classroom, view their childrens’ academic work and the additional resources available for learning and garner insight on the typical ‘Day in the Life of a Bridge Pupil’ in the classroom.
According to a parent, Mr Sunday Okoduwa with 3 children at Bridge noted that the occasion was enlightening and unique as it gave parents an opportunity to experience firsthand how the teachers teach the pupils in the classroom. “We got to know the technicality of teaching and learning. I learnt how teachers track and monitor the progress of their pupils and how they get the attention of children using cheers and energizers.” Okoduwa said.
Another parent, Mrs Ibilola Agbojo said the parent fest is an indication that Bridge cares. She noted that by creating more avenues for parents to meet with the teachers and academy managers, parents have more clarity about their role in their children’s success. “The parent fest initiative is highly commendable and I hope it can be sustained. Agbojo stated.
Bridge Nigeria believes that parent involvement improves attendance and helps children feel more motivated in the classes. The more parents are involved in their children’s education, the better the children’s class motivation, behavior, and grades become.
Speaking on the academic progress of her son, Mrs Olufunke Akanni, a parent at one of the Bridge Academies in Abule Egba said she is excited about the progress her son is making at his school. According to Akanni, it is important for parents to be involved in their children’s education. “The continuous feedback and updates I receive from my son’s teacher helps me keep track of his progress and help work on the areas for improvement”
As part of activities at the event, parents signed a pledge form to indicate their interest and readiness in becoming a partner in their child’s education and giving them the support they need to become successful and confident future leaders in Nigeria.
