Helping your 14 to 19-year-old to learn
As your child starts to study for GCSEs and other qualifications you may find they have to do a lot more work. Supporting your child's learning during this time can help them get the qualifications they need.
Methods to help your child study and learn
There's a lot you can do to help your child with their homework, coursework and exam revision.
Helping with homework
Here are some ways you can help:
- suggest doing homework as soon as it is received so that the information is fresh in your child's mind from classes
- encourage your child to speak up when in difficulty, as you may be able to help find the answers
- make sure your child has a good work-life balance, and doesn't spend too much time either going out with friends or sitting and doing homework
- learn about educational programmes on radio or television
- learn if there are any study support or homework clubs that may help
Tackling coursework
Good coursework marks can boost your child's grades. You can help by:
- finding out about the curriculum and how much work needs to be done
- finding out when coursework is due and helping your child to complete it on time
- making sure your child is clear about what they are required to do and how marks are awarded
- finding internet sites and safe chat rooms that can help with studying
- encouraging your child to print and save their work regularly if they are working on a computer
- encouraging your child to talk to their teacher about any problems they are having as early as possible
- making sure your child has the right books and resources
Aiding revision
You can help ease the pressure of exams by:
- helping your child develop a timetable, and help them stick to it
- listening to your child and finding ways to support them
- encouraging your child with praise and rewards
- creating a suitable environment for study and revision, for example a quiet area with a desk to work at