Give your child a helping hand and support their education

The Department of Education highlight the importance of parental involvement in your child's education.

The Department of Education has launched an advertising campaign encouraging parents, carers and extended family to support their children’s education by giving them ‘a helping hand ’.

Read to them from an early age; show an interest in their day at school; talk to them about their homework; and help them make the decisions now that will shape them into the adults they will become in future.

A good education opens up a world of opportunities for children and young people and parental involvement and encouragement plays an essential part from the very early years through to the vital exam stages.

A few simple actions can make the world of difference to how a child views education and the progress they make throughout their school years.

Playing counting games and singing nursery rhymes in the early years should not be underestimated as these can have a positive impact on a child’s educational outcomes later in life.

It is also never too early to read to a child. Just hearing a parent’s voice in a one to one scenario can engage their attention and provides a learning experience that will carry with them throughout their childhood.

Parental involvement does not stop there. Education is of vital importance throughout teenage years. Good attainment at school can open up a world of opportunities later in life, can improve feelings of self-worth and makes it easier for a child to continue with their studies or to find work.

There is a direct correlation between attendance at school and educational outcomes so it is essential that children and young people attend school regularly. Parents also play a vital role in supporting their children to make the best choices for their future and to plan for their future education and career.

Parental interest and encouragement has been a strong predictor of a child’s educational success. The education system needs parents to actively support them to deliver the best possible outcomes for all the children of Northern Ireland.

Source: Belfast Live