Parents can support primary school children by creating a positive learning environment, establishing routines, encouraging independence, and helping with schoolwork through reading and talking.
Setting up for success
Establish routines: Create consistent morning, bedtime, and after-school routines to help your child feel secure and prepared for the school day.
Practice independence: Encourage self-care skills like dressing, opening their lunchbox, and managing their schoolbag independently.
Develop motor skills: Engage in activities that build both gross motor skills (like wheelbarrow games) and fine motor skills (like building and drawing).
Fostering a positive learning environment
Encourage a positive attitude: Show enthusiasm for learning and praise your child’s efforts to build confidence.
Foster curiosity: Encourage your child to ask questions and provide positive responses to build confidence and a love of learning.
Promote good listening skills: Encourage your child to listen attentively, as this is a crucial skill for school life.
Support reading: Read to your child regularly, making it an enjoyable experience to foster a lifelong love of books.
Supporting learning and development
Talk and listen: Engage in conversations, listen attentively without interrupting, and give your child time to explain things to help develop language skills.
Use play: Incorporate learning into play, using toys like building blocks and simple jigsaws.
Help with homework: Provide a supportive environment for homework and assist your child as needed, remembering that you are not expected to be their teacher.
Working with the school
Communicate: Stay in regular communication with your child’s teacher to discuss their progress.
Get involved: Participate in school committees or other events where possible to stay connected to the school community.