The more supported a child feels at home, the better you will find they perform at school. Parents can help their children to make the most of their education by showing a positive attitude towards learning and taking an interest in their school work. It is important when helping your child that you care about their education and that you are proud of their achievements.
To help your child make the most of their time at school, here is some great advice for parents from Wetherby Pembridge…
- Demonstrate a love of learning as a family. Talk together about what you each learnt at work or school, or discuss interesting news topics. You could even ask your child to play the teacher at home and explain to you what they have learnt at school. Repeating what they have learnt will help them to memorise certain facts.
- Teach your child that learning can happen anywhere, not just in the classroom. For example, you can learn a lot from nature, by simply going out in your garden and observing the wildlife.
- Show encouragement by praising your child’s achievements. This will help to boost their confidence and keep them motivated. Attend school assemblies where your child’s achievements are recognised.
- Help your child to practice their organisation and time management skills. This will help to prepare them for homework and exams. Create a study schedule together or set up a special study area.
- Try not to put too much pressure on your child to choose certain subjects or reach certain grades. This can negatively affect their performance and can cause stress. Allow your child to develop at their own pace and have some freedom to make their own choices.
- Get to know the school and try to establish a good relationship with the teachers. It is also really helpful to keep up to date with current classwork so that you can support their learning at home.
- At weekends try to incorporate learning into your fun family activities. This could include visiting a museum or an art gallery.