At Seaton we believe that parents, carers and other family members can and do make a real difference to children's education. We also know as busy parents with busy families it can be challenging to get homework done after school. Many families share with us that completing homework can be a struggle so we have highlighted some key routines and strategies that will hopefully help make the homework routine calmer and easier. Details about expectations, the homework routine for the class and how to complete activities will be shared by your childs class teacher. Homework is shared at the beginning of each week and should be returned by the end of the week.
If you have any questions or need any support, please speak to your child's class teacher or send a message to the school office.
We offer a Homework Club for P4-7 pupils to attend each week on a Tuesday. This club is led by a teacher and is available to help and support your child to complete their tasks. Digital devices are available for your child to use and they have access to support tools such as number line/squares, counting materials, dictionaries etc.
To support you with helping your child with their homework, there is an open invitation for parents to attend the club with their child. This can be a drop in session or each week. Miss Mann will be available to answer any questions and give advice about activities.
Our Homework after school club is always very popular and spaces are limited. If your child would like to attend this club, please let Mrs Duncan know through the school office.
Before you start it is a good idea to make sure that your child has had something to eat, drink and have had a rest after returning from school. That way they won't be tired or hungry and will be ready to have a go at their activities.
Showing interest in what your child has been learning and talking to them about their homework task realy helps them see the importance of learning. With support and encouragement, childen find it easier to get in the homework habit.
It is a good idea to have a plan as to what day(s) that your child will complete their tasks. Your child may have other weekly activities to work around so it is a good idea to plan and which day(s) they will complete tasks to ensure they don't feel rushed and have plenty of time. We've all been there with leaving things to the last minute, but this can lead to added stress to get things done. There are a variety of weekly planners available with different themes that can be used as a visual for your child. This could be displayed on the fridge or it the area your child likes to use to complete their homework.
We want homework to be a positive and meaningful part of your child's learning experiences. To support your child to focus on their task, it is best to complete activities away from distractions such as the TV or digital devices. Children do learn in different ways so check with your child as to whether they prefer a quiet place or like to have music on in the background.
It doesn't really matter where your child complete's their homework as long as they are engaged. It could be at the kitchen table, a comfy spot or out in the garden on a nice day.
Don't worry if you and your child don't know what to do. Tasks that are given should be linked to what your child has been learning in class but if you are unsure, please don't spend lots of time (and stress) trying to find a solution. If there is a problem, just let your child's teacher know.
Be positive
Remember to praise their efforts, especially of they are finding things tricky.
Make some time to talk to your child about their task and help them to understand what they need to do.
Have a routine
Using rewards can be a great way to encourage your child to complete their task. Rewrd even the smallest achievements and build on this.
Try to encourage your child to come up with their own ideas and suggestions. They will be prouder of their achievement if they have produced their own work.
There are a variety of teaching videos available on sites like YouTube. These include videos explaining strategies, concepts and songs to help them remember.
Maths online tools. This website has lots of great maths manipulatives to help your child visualise concepts.
Duolingo is a great website for learning a variety of languages at the users own pace.
Maths Playgorund has lots of fun games for all ages and stages.
nrich this is a great website if your child likes a problem solving challenge.
Set a time limit with your child e.g 10-15 minutes. If your child is still not engaged postpone (but not abandon it) and try again another time.
End in a positive and your child's confidence will grow. Avoid extending the session becuase it is going well; it may undo all the good.
There are lots of resources available for free online for your child to access. Games to consolidate learning is a great way for your child to become more confident with concepts and improve their recall. Some great websites are available below.
Part of the challenge is completing activities independently. Can they organise themselves e.g. take out their homework, find resources and explain to you what their task is.