How can I support my child’s learning at school?

As parents, it is natural to be concerned about how your child is doing at school and wonder how you can support your child. The best international schools are built on a culture of collaboration and partnership between the school and the parent and offer a variety of ways in which parents can be involved in the lives of their children at school. Here are some tried and tested ideas and solutions to inspire you:

1. Keep a track!
   From checking your child's coursework regularly, to flipping through their handbook to check for notes from the homeroom teacher, there are many ways to keep a track of your child's learning. Schools like ours also share hourly updates on your child's learning and progress through mobile apps and online platforms which help you keep a tab on what's being taught at school. Additionally, homeroom teachers email parents on a weekly basis to share their weekly updates. School websites and apps, also often offer circulars, calendars, homework assignments and syllabi for easy download and reference. It's also a great idea to subscribe to your school's social media platforms to make sure you get the latest updates and photos from the school.
2. Communicate
   While there's no doubt that technology is convenient, sometimes the warmth and reassurance that talking to someone is irreplaceable. If you have concerns don't hesitate to pick up the phone and contact the school. You can speak to the Parent Relationship Manager, your child's teachers or Coordinator if you have something to clarify. You can also take an appointment to pop in to the school for a quick chat during the school's visiting hours.
3. Make the most of conferences
   From Open-House Days and Home PTMs to Parent-Teacher Meetings and even Student Led Conferences, the best international schools offer many platforms for parents, teachers and students to regularly discuss and evaluate the child's progress and growth. These are wonderful opportunities to regularly check in with your child's teachers about what are the areas your child is excelling at, and what are the areas he or she needs more support in. Facilitators usually share their feedback and suggestions gladly, and will be happy to hear from you about your child's learning at home. You can keep a track of the scheduled conferences using the school calendar, so that you don't miss a single one.
   
4. Cheer them on!
   One of the most emotionally powerful and supportive things a parent can do for a child is to be present and cheer them on. Your presence at school events and celebrations is a signal to your child that they matter enough for you to take time out of your schedule for them. Be present to watch your child's performances and let them know how proud you are of them. This will not just motivate them but also help the two of you build a better bond in the long run.
5. Parent Involvement Activities
   Schools also organize parent involvement activities to give parents a glimpse of their child's life at school. These events include different stations for hands-on activities for the parent and child to team up to tackle together- games, photo-booths, sculpture, crafts, there's usually a little something for everyone.
   
6. Volunteer to be a Resource Parent
   One of the best ways to support your child in their learning is to be a part of the current unit of inquiry at school. Schools like ours invite parents to share their expertise and knowledge with children, should it be related to what is currently being taught. An interactive talk or a presentation from you could greatly inspire and motivate your child and his or her classmates to explore more!
7. Chat with your child...
   At the end of the day, there's nothing quite like spending some time with your child to learn from him what he's exploring, and what his thoughts and ideas are. Spending a little quality time with your child will definitely encourage him or her to open up and share with you what is being explored in school.

We hope these ideas help you stay involved with your child's learning at school. If you have more ideas or a question, feel free to get in touch with us!