In a world that seems to be getting busier and busier, helping your child with schoolwork can seem like an insurmountable task. Here are some simple tips that can help you help your child.
Set routines
- Set aside a time and a place where your child can do homework. Work around sport and other commitments and find a time that works for your family.
- If homework happens straight after school, give your child time to eat, drink and have a break before starting their homework.
- Choose a place where you can keep an eye on your child, to keep them on task and to jump in with some help if needed.
- Make sure they have everything that they need before they start.
Good communication with teachers
- Make sure you are well informed about how your child is progressing at school and any areas that may need some extra work.
- Find out about topics being studied so that you can talk about these with your child.
- If you are finding they are struggling with any homework, discuss options with the teacher.
Set aside time for reading every day
- Reading is an essential skill that affects every other subject. Give your child opportunities to dive into books every day.
- This can take many forms: reading a book together as a family after dinner, quiet story time before bed, listening to your child reading in the afternoon, a peaceful time on the weekend where everyone sits and reads their own book. It will be good for you too!
Make the most of time in the car
- Save the devices for the really long trips and use the short trips as another opportunity to learn.
- Play games like ‘I Spy’ or ‘Scattergories’.
- Times table practice or revision for tests can be done in short bursts.
- Audio books can be very useful, especially for students who struggle to read.
Make time to talk
- Talk in the car, at the dinner table and while shopping. Grow your child’s language skills and stretch their vocabulary.
- Find out what topics they are studying in HASS and Science. Talk about those topics together and help extend their knowledge. If you don’t know, ask them questions or look up some information together.
These small changes can make a big difference and help your child develop their love of learning.
Michelle Horne
Teacher/Inclusive Education Coach
