Parents must remember the power of talk
Print Edition
Parents are always asking about how they can support their child’s learning at home and then are surprised by the simple answer I most often give. I am a great advocate of the power of talk and believe that if parents talk with their children, they are giving them a great gift for life and success in the world.
When parents take the time and effort to create opportunities for real and meaningful talk, children are exposed to a rich oral culture and this has a positive and significant impact on all aspects of their learning development. To perform well in an academic setting, children need to be able to effectively use higher order language. This is why so much time is spent within classrooms engaging children in talking; in pairs, small groups, or in full class discussions or debates. When children are involved in learning talk, they are articulating their understanding, expressing and defending their thoughts and opinions, acting as peer teachers or givers of feedback and expanding and refining their language and literacy skills.
It follows therefore that if the purpose of homework is to consolidate and extend children’s learning, then some of the most powerful and impactful homework is when parents actively engage in discussions and debates, and make a conscious effort to talk with their child; talk about what is going on in your child’s life and the lives of parents and other family members; talk about the news and what is happening in the world: allow your child to enthuse about their hobbies or latest interest; ask questions and find out more. If you also talk about books and reading, this will engage and enthuse children as readers too!
So, put away the iPads and homework sheets and get talking — never miss an opportunity for a good chat as is an essential gateway to learning.
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