Resources and tips for supporting your child's learning

Ask your kids about their day and some can’t wait to tell you everything they’ve learned, while others will just shrug. It helps if you ask them open questions, that they can’t reply to with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Here are some questions to help you help them open up.

It’s the day that fills every parent with pride and fear: the day when your kids start bringing back homework. One of the best ways you can help them with it is to sit with them to plan their time. Make sure there’s time set aside for them to do their homework, so they’re not doing it last thing at night. For example, how about giving them some time to relax and play when they get home, and then getting them to do their homework before or after tea? Or maybe they’d like to get their homework out of the way first, so the rest of the evening is free? Ask them what they’d prefer – although ‘not doing it at all’ isn’t an option!

It can help if children have a designated place to do their homework, away from other distractions like the TV. Different children like to work in different ways, so it’s nice to talk this through with them and maybe try out some different places. Remember, they may learn in a different way from you! Some kids may prefer to be in the same room as you, so they can ask questions and discuss their work, whereas others may prefer to be on their own so they can concentrate. Likewise, some may like to listen to music, while others may prefer peace and quiet. 

If your kids are full of energy and won’t settle to their homework, why not put on some music and get them jumping up and down or dancing for 10 minutes? This way they’ll burn off some energy and stay fit!

Even if your kids think they’re too old for bedtime stories, reading together is a great way of spending quiet time together. Books and stories open up new worlds for children, giving you all new things to talk about and discuss. If you don’t know where to start, the Scottish Book Trust has good recommendations on their website. 

You’re not the only person who can support your child while they’re learning from home. How about asking a friend or family member to help out for an hour or so each week? They could set up a video chat to help with schoolwork, to give you a break. For example, they could listen to your child practise their reading, test them on their spellings, do some drawing together or just chat about what they’re up to.

Remember to offer them lots of praise and encouragement when they get on with their school work. You could even offer them small rewards, like stickers or extra time playing, if that helps them focus.

If you have any concerns about the learning your child does at home, for example, if you think they are given too much work, or are struggling with any topics, get in touch with their teacher to talk it through. The aim of homework is to help children learn, not to upset or overwhelm them.