LYDIA SCALTSAS, PRIVATE TUTOR AND FOUNDER OF LS TUITION
Our parents often ask how they can best support their child at home. Here’s what we think helps:
1. KEEP PRAISING EFFORT
We are all motivated by praise. But most kids know when praise is genuine. So, it’s worth choosing your moments carefully. See ‘mistakes’ as opportunities for growth. And make sure your child knows it’s ok to ‘fail’. Any time. (All that counts is that they do their best!)
2. BE ENTHUSIASTIC OR NEUTRAL!
Try not to communicate your own anxieties about (let’s say) Maths. All your child needs, is encouragement. (When ‘learning’ alongside your child, you might surprise yourself!)
3. LITTLE AND OFTEN
Worried about your child’s progress in Reading, Writing or Maths? Keen to address any gaps or consolidate learning? We’d recommend the primary-age range of Numeracy and Literacy workbooks by Schofield & Sims. You can preview and buy these on the Schofield & Sims website.
4. HARNESS THE BENEFITS OF TECHNOLOGY
There are fantastic gadgets and online tools available. The screen- and wifi-free Voxblock audiobook player (age 3+) was designed to boost literacy levels. At LS Tuition we also recommend SplashLearn. This game-based platform helps consolidate Maths and Literacy knowledge and skills. Each of our students has an account.
5. KEEP EXPLORING TOGETHER
New experiences open our minds. So, it’s worth venturing out, perhaps even beyond your comfort zone. Galleries, museums, churches, public grounds etc., are welcoming, and often free. We are lucky to have them.
6. KEEP THOSE QUESTIONS COMING!
Intelligent adults and children ask questions. (Just not always out loud!) So, it’s worth showing an interest. Even if the answer is not obvious. Questions are the seeds of progress.
7. WORDS, IMAGES, NOT ALWAYS BOOKS
Books help us thrive intellectually. But learning is not all about books! A young child just needs to read something regularly. (Magazines, instructions, recipes, signs, supermarket labels etc.) The LS Tuition blog has lots of ideas for reluctant readers. e.g. Barrington Stoke books are ideal for primary-age children with (diagnosed or suspected) Dyslexia.
8. PRIORITISE THE ‘WHOLE’ CHILD
At LS Tuition, we believe that children learn best when they are engaged. So, we tailor bespoke activities that will be fun and stimulating for the individual. Equally, we recognise that young minds need brain breaks to refuel and unwind. ■
Our parents say:
“6 Stars if we could.”
“The online and in-class options are perfect.”
“I saw an improvement within the first few classes.”
For more information:
Email: lydia@lstuition.co.uk