4 Ways How Parents Can Help Students to Learn English

Teachers’ role in the educational process is very important, but so as parents’. Teachers’ work can’t be successful if the student focuses on English only in classes. Only working together as team teachers and parents can create a good studying environment.

This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Anastasiia C. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.

1. The Importance of Lessons

There are many ways parents can help their children. Their help is a multi-faceted process. Small steps combine to create an eager and capable student.

The first and most important step is letting your child understand the importance of English. Parents must first understand and believe in the importance of English language skills. Children are adept at picking up on parental attitudes. If children realize the adults in their lives don't think learning English is important, they will be less likely to approach the subject with a positive attitude.

Also Read: How much does a TEFL course cost?

School Preparation

Another important thing that really helps is preparing children for school. In many ways, parents can help their children learn English by ensuring they're well-prepared for school in general. This can include:

• Homework. Homework is an important part of the study process and should be done in a timely manner. Parents can help their children to organize their schedule properly so there is enough time for homework. They also should be ready to answer some questions.
• All necessary equipment starting with textbooks and finishing with pens and erasers. Students like the feeling of having their own nice-looking study materials, which also brings a sense of importance. Only parents can provide the necessary financial and organizational help.
• Students’ feedback. Parents are the closest people for children so kids should feel they can share their successes and troubles with them. If the parents show their interest it will be easier for a child to tell them how is his or her study going. It means that the kid has one more opportunity to analyze these classes.
• Students’ health. It’s extremely important for parents not only organize students’ study but their rest as well. Good night sleep, healthy breakfast, enough physical activity all these and many more details are helpful for learning.

Also Read: Important Ideas to Consider when Teaching Vocabulary

3. Parent-Teacher Communication

One more thing the parents can do is to communicate with teachers. Talking to teachers and other school personnel can be intimidating for parents of ESL students, especially if they aren't comfortable with their own English skills. However, teachers can be invaluable partners in helping children reach their full potential. In addition to reporting on a student's overall progress, teachers may be able to suggest the best methods for practicing English at home and point parents to helpful resources. On the other side, parents can tell the teacher something about students’ feeling and worries that is hard to see in the class, so the teacher will be able to take this feedback under the consideration.

4. Learn Together

One more interesting solution that is really helpful is to start to learn English with the child. When parents are able to use English at home, more opportunities will arise for children to practice speaking and listening. Parents and children practicing their new skills together can be a great motivator. Moreover, such parents-children activity can unite the family and bring much fun.

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