Tips For Parents: How Do I Help My Child? Part 1
- Take a few minutes to just relax and talk to your child before you check his/her homework. Take time to find out what the “highs” and “lows” of their day were. Stay tuned to what’s happening in your child’s life.
- Stay on track with your child’s academic progress. Even if your child does homework at an aftercare centre, parents still need to check homework and make sure that your child studies for tests and exams.
- End homework sessions on a high note. Encourage your child to do the more difficult work first and to end with something they enjoy and are good at. This serves as motivation.
- Give enough brain-breaks. Depending on the age of your child and the child’s concentration span, a five minute break needs to be taken after every 15 – 20 minutes of homework or studies. A kitchen timer, set at start of the homework session, will put an end to procrastination.
- Make sure your child is not busy with too many extramural activities.
- Get to know your child’s teacher. Find out in the beginning of the school year whether you are allowed to contact your child’s teacher (telephonically, via sms or email).
- While support may be needed, it is important to encourage your child to work independently. Their own efforts may not be perfect but it will instill a sense of pride and accomplishment.
- Distinguish between help and supervision. Your role needs to gradually move from helping to supervising. It is, however, important not to allow your child to struggle on their own until they are completely discouraged. Intervene and support when you find your child needs help.
- If you suspect your child has a reading or concentration problem do not delay getting help. Visit the ADHASA website (www.adhasa.co.za) for support.
- Read for Africa (www.readforafrica.co.za) have therapists that support learners with reading difficulties.
- With paper and longer assignments you may still have to help with research. Once the research is done encourage the child to do the rest on their own and assist only when really necessary.
- Give praise and encouragement. Also be sincere and specific in your praise. Acknowledge progress and effort and believe in your child’s ability to make a success of his/her school career.
