Author: Bethany Spencer
Posted: 09 May 2017
Estimated time to read: 3 mins
Family involvement in children’s education has proven to have a positive impact on a student’s school life. In Britain, studies have identified that students who are regularly supported by their parents, perform significantly better in class exercises, exams and become more confident with their independent learning. 
We’ve come up with a few simple ways in which you can help to support your child’s learning at home, to ensure that they are performing to the best of their ability.
Set up a study space
Studying at home has always been a problem for children. With the overwhelming temptations of playing video games, watching TV and socialising with friends on social media after school hours, it’s natural for procrastination to happen. However, providing your children with a productive study environment at home will help students with their homework needs.
This study space should, if possible, be a quiet place in your home away from distractions and have everything your child needs to complete the task at hand - papers, notepads and laptop if necessary. Having this space will help to eliminate distractions and increase your child’s engagement with their homework tasks. By taking away the little distracting things, these study spaces can help your child to complete homework to their highest standard.
Provide support
There is a fine line between helping your child with their homework and doing it for them. The goal for parental involvement is to support your child when they need help and build their confidence when answering questions and solving problems.
When supporting your child, it is important to regularly communicate with them and ask questions to ensure they understand the exercise and the thought process behind their answer. Showing a continuous interest, will encourage your child to work harder, and attempt to independently tackle these homework tasks in the future. With the right guidance and support, parental involvement can empower students to reach their full potential in education and future careers.
It is also important to consider when it is time for self-directed learning. This mode of study encourages children to challenge themselves, solving homework tasks on their own and working autonomously. With the balance between providing support and independent learning, students will be prepared for life outside of school.
Outside support
With a busy work and home life, it can be difficult to find the time to assist your child with their homework needs. Not to mention that in some subject areas, you may not feel equipped to give full support.
One-on-one attention from a tutor is a great way to help your child complete homework if they feel the need for additional help. Investing in a tutor can help build your child’s academic progression and confidence. It’s important to have regular communication with your child’s school so you keep up-to-date on their progress. Relying on your child’s feedback isn’t the easiest way to stay in-the-know on how they’re performing.
Talking with teachers can provide you with a clear insight into their school work and behaviour and they can always suggest ways in which you can further support your child at home. Providing your child with the tools to complete work successfully at home will contribute to their overall school experience and help to ensure they are working to the best of their capabilities. Being actively involved in your child’s school life can help to improve your child’s academic progression, especially when this is executed consistently.
