Research shows that practicing English at home with parents can boost a child’s confidence and motivation, leading to better grades and test scores.
Try these nine tips to help your child get ahead. All of the tips below can be followed in English or your native language.
1) Help your child have fun learning English
Learning English is fun. Try not to push your child too hard and allow them to play games and do fun activities in English. The more your child enjoys learning English, the more they will work, which is guaranteed to lead to better results.
2) Encourage your child to play computer games
Encourage your child to play vocabulary and grammar games. These reinforce what your child has learned in class and allow them to study grammar, vocabulary and phonics in a fun way.
3) Use the Internet
Help your child access interactive websites on the Internet. There are many free websites, especially for younger students, that will help your child review the language they are learning in class, play language games, and research interesting topics. For example, you can encourage your child to read about topics that interest them in English on an age-appropriate site or watch age-appropriate videos about these topics.
4) Create a positive learning environment
Create a quiet study area with your child that is well-lit with natural light, where they will not be disturbed, and where they have easy access to all the supplies they will need, such as pencils, paper, and erasers.
5) Teach your child how to be organized
Talk to your child about the importance of being organized and having a routine. This will help them be more successful in class and in other areas of their lives.
6) Help your child get ready
Encourage your child to start their homework or test preparation as early as possible. This way, they will not be stressed or anxious and will do better.
7) Help your child with homework/revision
Set a regular time for homework or revision. During this time, try to be available if your child needs help, but avoid giving direct answers. Instead, ask questions that will help your child solve the problem in smaller, more manageable steps.
8) Read with your child
Read to your child every day and encourage your child to read to you. Ask questions about the story as you read, such as, “Why did Cinderella have to leave the ball?” Reading to your child increases their interest in English and builds their vocabulary.
If your child is old enough to read on their own, you can read the same book and set a time when you can ask each other questions and discuss the book.
9) Ask your child questions about their day
Ask your child questions about what they see, hear, and touch during the day. Talking about their day will encourage and motivate your child to do well in the classroom.
Source: Oxford University Press
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