Family involvement is one of the factors with the greatest influence on how a child does at school. But being involved does not mean controlling them or doing their work for them.

What helps

  • Showing real interest. “What did you learn today that you didn't know before?” opens up more than “have you got homework?”.
  • Routines. Enough sleep, an afternoon snack, a set time and place for homework.
  • Speaking well of the school and the teachers in front of them.
  • Valuing effort, not just marks.
  • Reading at home and having books within reach.
  • Encouraging independence: packing their school bag, writing down their tasks.

Working with the school

Go to meetings, keep in touch with the class teacher and raise any concern early. Family and school need to pull in the same direction.

When there are difficulties

If a subject is very hard for them, they avoid going to class or they often complain of stomach aches in the morning, it is worth listening to them and talking to the school. Sometimes there is a learning difficulty or a problem with classmates.

The underlying message

Making mistakes is part of learning. A child who is not afraid of getting things wrong dares to try difficult things.