One of the most comprehensive articles I've ever read was in a past issue of Scientific American. It centers around Indonesian immigrants who were brought into America and placed in the inner cities of five large metropolitan areas after having spent two or three years in detention camps, which slowed their educational process.

Five hundred students were involved in the study to learn why their grades were so outstanding. First, the larger the family, the better the grades because the older kids in the family taught the younger ones. Second, the parents read to the children, either in their native tongue or in English. Third, they reinforced their culture with a "be proud of your heritage" approach. Fourth, the parents and teachers worked together, which further enhanced the results.

The article also points out that after World War II, when prejudice against the Japanese was at its peak, the results were the same for the Japanese students who were given this same treatment in homes where the parents worked with the teachers. A study of African Americans in Chicago revealed the same results, and a study of the Jews in America showed likewise.

Message: It doesn't make any difference which continent you're from or the color of your skin. It is the treatment you receive that produces the results. We can only imagine what would happen in America if we could eliminate prejudice and persuade every family to take the same approach as the families referenced above — raising their kids and preparing them for a successful life. Think about it, and if you are in the child-raising process, do these things with them and I'll see you — and them — at the top!

To find out more about Zig Ziglar and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate web page at www.creators.com. Subscribe to Zig Ziglar's free email newsletter through ziglar.com.

Photo credit: nikolayhg at Pixabay