Word puzzles help children practise spelling rules, grow their vocabulary and improve working memory, processing speed, problem-solving and logical thinking. They also build persistence, support test-taking skills such as verbal reasoning and grammar, and boost self-esteem when a challenge is solved. Word puzzles are portable too, so children can do them anywhere without a device.
Five free ways to help children succeed at school are encouraging curiosity through play and reading, building a growth mindset by praising effort rather than ability and adding the word yet to their limitations, reducing screen time in favour of conversation, eating family dinners together and paying attention to homework to see where they need support.
To prepare for a first parent-teacher meeting, ask your child how they feel about school and list questions about settling in, homework and class participation. During the meeting, arrive on time, ask the important questions first and agree how to stay in touch. Afterwards, discuss the meeting with your child and follow the teacher’s suggestions at home.
To respond well to a child’s school report, talk to the teacher to understand the marks, then discuss the report calmly with your child, including which results they are proudest of. Check whether homework time and extra-mural activities are balanced, keep expectations realistic and remember that the most important thing is that your child is learning and progressing.
Teenagers are more motivated when schoolwork feels relevant, so link it to their future goals. Give them a say in how tasks are done, let them learn from failure, help them build their own organisation systems, break large tasks into smaller steps with short deadlines, offer incentives for effort and improvement, and make learning fun with technology and games.
