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Helping your 11 to 14 year old to learn
Getting involved with your child's education can make a significant difference to their chances of success. Research has shown that children whose parents are involved get higher marks, have a better attitude towards learning and develop more confidence.
Take an interest day to day
Getting involved with your child's education at secondary school doesn't have to be difficult. There are some simple things you can do to show your interest:
- ask about your child's homework - when work is due and whether they need any help with anything
- find out the topics your child will be studying each term by looking at the school's curriculum plan or talking to teachers
- check the school newsletter for upcoming events, and mark your calendar straight away for activities that will include your child
Support your child's reading
At 11 to 14 years of age your child may be too old for bedtime stories, but you can still help shape their reading habits. You can develop your child's interest by:
- encouraging your child to read magazines, comics and newspapers as well as books
- buying books for presents - those that tie in to a favourite television show, pop band or computer game are often a hit
- reading together - try picking reading material on subjects you both like, such as a sports team, music group or holiday destination
- read the books or plays that your child is studying in school, like a Shakespeare play, and discuss what you've read with your child
Get the most from school reports
Your child receives a school report just once a year, so here are some ideas on how to get the most from it:
- read the report carefully and note your child's strengths and weaknesses - work out what they need to do to improve in weak areas
- give plenty of praise when your child has done well, but for areas of concern agree on specific things you and your child can do to improve
- compare reports from year to year to highlight areas of improvement and concern
Make the most of parents evening
In secondary school you might meet your child's teachers only once a year, so it pays to be prepared for parents evening.
To make the most of the occasion:
- spend some time with your child before parents evening discussing their strengths, weaknesses and any problems at school
- make a list of questions to ask teachers about your child's work, how they get along with classmates and their general attitude toward school
- be prepared to listen when meeting teachers, even to criticism of your child's work or behaviour
- ask questions, especially if you don't understand or agree with something
- try to take away from the meeting some positive steps that you, your child and the teachers can take to help your child succeed
Taking advantage of museums and galleries
A fun day out for the family can also be a great learning opportunity. Museums and galleries and can help bring your child's school work to life.
These websites can help you plan your visits:
- The 24 Hour Museum - search for specific kinds of exhibits by place, date or subject at 2,800 museums, galleries and heritage attractions
- Gallery finder - search for galleries, art museums and art centres by geographic region. Each listing features a description of exhibits and information on education programmes for children.
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