Helping out at school is a great way to get involved in your child’s education as well as get to know the staff and other parents and carers.
Research shows that children benefit when their parents or carers are actively involved in their education and school life.
You can help by:
- listening to children read in the classroom
- volunteering on sports days
- helping supervise excursions
- getting involved in fundraising activities
- joining school committees.
There are times when parents/caregivers can't help at school but there are many ways to help ensure your child is successful at school. Some things to think and act upon at home include:
- Take an enthusiastic interest in what your child has done at school during the day. This talking and listening opportunity is one of the most valuable experiences for both you and your child.
- Support your child's homework and class activities.
- Take an active role in your child's academic progress - keep in touch with your child's teacher and be aware of what your child is learning at school.
- Attend ESPA meetings throughout the year.
- Help your child by encouraging him or her to do the best in school and at home. Remember, "personal best" does not mean "perfect", and learning is not the same as high grades. Children, like adults, need the freedom to make mistakes and to learn from them.
- Talk to your child's peer group and parents.
- Make homework a part of the household. It reinforces what they have learned at school - always ask your child if they have homework - chances are they do.
- Observe your child carefully and comment on the things that are done well. When you see an area that needs improvement, find a positive way to talk about it with your child.