Improving your child’s performance in school

Back to schoolYour child is more likely to succeed when you, your family and your child’s teachers expect them to do their very best

  • Remind them how important learning is.
  • Ask them what job they want to do when they get older
  • Tell them that they make you feel proud

 
 
Work with your child’s teachers, school and other family members to agree expectations  for learning, studying and behaviour
 

  • Ask them what homework they have and ask to see it when they’ve done it
  • Agree a time when they can do the things they want to do

 
 
Make sure that your expectations and goals are right for your child’s age and maturity
 

  • If your child gets stuck with homework give them suggestions for problem solving
  • Talk to your child’s teachers about how much homework your child is expected to do

 
 
Have agreed set times for playing games, watching TV and leisure
 

  • Set a time for homework at the same time each day
  • When your child has finished their homework, agree time to play
  • Set play time as a reward

 
 
Let your child know how you expect them to behave and set clear boundaries
 

  • Set rules for when homework takes place, how long it will take and when you will check it
  • Ask them if there is anything they are worried or upset about

 
 
Provide structure
 

  • Set daily routines for homework, going out, bedtime and meals, so that your child will know when they have time for themselves
  • If your child doesn’t have homework, encourage them to read or give them a problem to solve so they stay in the homework routine.

 

Useful Websites
 
www.bbc.co.uk/learning
www.bbc.co.uk/schools
www.channel4learning.com
www.direct.gov.uk/curriculum
www.direct.gov.uk/en/educationandlearning
www.homeworkelephant.co.uk
www.parentchannel.tv
 
This is by no means an exhaustive list and has been produced to offer a flavour of the types of websites available.
 
Your school may have other resources available for you to use, or you could get them from their website. You could also ask other parents and family members for support and advice on helping your son or daughter with their learning.
 
To print off copies of this document and other resources please visit www.direct.gov.uk/homeworksupport