How to Help Your Child

Getting involved with your child’s education can make a significant difference to their chances of success.

Research has shown that children whose parents are involved get higher marks, have a better attitude towards learning and develop more confidence.

Take a daily interest

Getting involved with your child’s education at secondary school doesn’t have to be difficult. There are some simple things you can do to show your interest:

  • ask about your child’s homework – find out when work is due and whether they need any help with anything;
  • find out the topics your child will be studying each term by looking at the school’s curriculum plan or talking to teachers;

Support your child’s reading

At secondary school age your child may be too old for bedtime stories, but you can still help shape their reading habits. You can develop your child’s interest by:

  • encouraging them to read magazines, comics and newspapers as well as books;
  • buying books for presents;
  • reading together – try picking reading material on subjects you both enjoy like sirah, a sports team or holiday destination;
  • reading the books your child is studying in school and discussing what you’ve read with them.

Get the most from school reports

Your child receives a school report at least once a year. To get the most out of a report you should:

  • read it carefully and note your child’s strengths and weaknesses – work out what they need to do to improve in weak areas;
  • give praise when your child has done well, but for areas of concern agree on specific things that can be done to improve;
  • compare reports from year to year to highlight areas of improvement and concern.

Make the most of parents’ evenings

In secondary school you might only meet your child’s teachers once a year, so it pays to be prepared. You can make the most of parents’ evenings by:

spending some time with your child before the evening discussing their strengths, weaknesses and any problems at school;

  • making a list of questions to ask teachers about your child’s work, how they get along with classmates and their general attitude toward school;
  • being prepared to listen when meeting teachers, even to criticism of your child’s work or behaviour;
  • asking questions, especially if you don’t understand or agree with something;
  • trying to take away from the meeting some positive steps that you, your child and the teachers can take to help your child succeed.
Education