What is the issue?
The issue being addressed in this brochure is that of parents being engaged in student learning both at home and school. This is more so an issue with EAL families for various reasons and can be addressed easily with all parties’ willingness.
Why I believe there is an issue
I have long heard from students that their parents are unable to help them with homework and take part in school activities. This may be for several different reasons but I have taken note of EAL students reporting that their parents are unable to help them with their homework because they are not able to understand and/or read the homework given. I volunteer at a school homework club, where students spend an hour with tutors completing their homework. …show more content…
There are several cultures that revere teachers and parents believe it is not their place to question or interfere with their children's school education (DEECD, p. 6.6). While we can respect this fact, parents may need to be encouraged and informed about how important they are to their child's development and education.
We can also understand that some parents may feel unsure or even intimidated to approach their child's teacher. Some parents may feel that they are not good enough to help their children due to their education or lack thereof, which could also lead to embarrassment. Parents may also feel unsure as to how to help their children and what is required of them in assisting their child in their education. All these feelings are natural and as a teacher there are many things that can be done to encourage parents to be involved in student learning.
Open door …show more content…
While you may not be reading in English you are still working with your child on comprehension skills. Reading is not all about knowing all the words, it's understanding the story and information given. Comprehension is not an exclusive English skill and is a lifelong skill that children need to master.
Use online support. If your child is researching information for a homework task change the language settings on the Internet pages you are looking at so you are able to understand the information and help your child find the correct answers and information. Translation sites and applications such as Google Translate can also help translate information and help your child translate the information from one language to another.
Talk with your child's teachers.
Talking to your children's teachers should be your number one resource. Teachers understand that issues you may be having with helping your child with their homework. Your child's teacher will be able to help you find ways to help your child with online resources, strategies and community programs that could help you in working with your child. (Breiseth, p. 15)
Learn alongside your