Supporting Your Foster Child with Homework: Hints and Tips for Success
As a foster carer, you play a vital role in the development of the children you care for, not just emotionally but academically too.
Homework is more than just an after-school chore; it’s an opportunity to support your foster child’s learning journey, build essential life skills, and show them that their education matters. Here we share some practical strategies to help you create a positive homework routine and support your foster child’s academic ambitions.
Why is Homework Important?
Research shows that homework has multiple benefits for children. Understanding how homework supports not just academic success but also broader developmental goals like independence and resilience is important for you as a foster parent.
Boosting Academic Performance: Homework reinforces what children learn in school, helping them understand the material better and perform well in tests. Sometimes work is set to recap and practise what has been learned in school. Sometimes flipped learning work is set so that the child discovers key learning before the lesson then teachers extend that learning in the classroom.
Developing Study Skills: Time management, responsibility, and persistence are key study skills developed through homework, preparing children for success in school and beyond.
Encouraging Independence: Completing homework teaches children to take initiative and work independently.
Preparing for the Future: Regular homework helps children adjust to the demands of higher education and future careers.
Involving Parents and Carers: Homework offers you a chance to show interest and engage with your foster child’s learning. You can also identify your foster child’s current strengths and areas where they may need support.
Building Non-Academic Skills: Tasks like balancing multiple assignments help children develop self-regulation, cognitive abilities, and the ability to prioritise tasks.
Of course, balance is key. Too much homework can cause stress and take away from important activities like play and family time, so moderation is essential. By understanding the value of homework, you can approach it as an opportunity to guide children you care for, toward success.
10 Top Tips to Support Homework Success
Here are 10 practical ways you can help your foster child with their homework:
1. Create a Calm Homework Environment
Find a quiet, well-lit area free from distractions like TV or noisy siblings. For busy households, consider using noise-cancelling headphones or setting up a temporary homework station at the dining table. If space is limited, even a portable tray with supplies can create a focused workspace. A calm, organised environment helps children feel comfortable and ready to learn.
2. Establish a Routine
Set a regular time for homework each day. Consistency helps children develop good habits and ensures homework doesn’t become a last-minute scramble. For example, setting aside time following a snack break after school can work well.
3. Be Available to Help
Be nearby to answer questions or provide guidance, but encourage your child to try solving problems on their own first. This builds confidence and problem-solving skills while reinforcing their ability to learn independently.
RESOURCES: Primary School Children
- BBC Bitesize: Interactive games and support for Maths, English, Science and more.
- Teach Your Monster to Read: Aims to help children aged 3-6 to learn and read in an interactive and fun way using the systematic synthetic phonics approach that many schools use.
- Twinkl: Resources on a wide range of subjects including printable worksheets, PowerPoint presentations and videos.
- Duolingo: Structured activities to help children learn a variety of different languages
- Times Tables Rock Stars (TTRS): Your child’s school may have a subscription to allow you to log in for free – other wise you pay for a family subscription for up to 3 child accounts. This is helpful for children working towards the Year 4 Multiplication Tables check.
RESOURCES: Secondary School Children
Your child’s school may have a subscription to a Maths App such as MyMaths or an English App such as Pearson ActiveLearn, allowing you to login for free.
- BBC Bitesize: A wide range of resources to support children in Key Stage 3 and 4, including GCSE resources tailored to each exam board.
- Quizlet: Flashcards and study guides on a range of topics, plus children can make their own to help them recap and revise learning.
- Twinkl: Resources on a wide range of subjects including printable worksheets, PowerPoint presentations and videos.
- Duolingo: Structured activities to help children learn a variety of different languages.
4. Encourage Independence
As your child’s confidence grows, gradually step back. For example, ask them to share their completed work rather than sitting with them the entire time. Let them take the lead while you cheer them on from the sidelines.
5. Stay Positive and Encouraging
Celebrate their efforts and achievements, no matter how small. A simple “Well done on completing that tricky question!” can boost their motivation and make them feel proud. Highlight progress, not just perfection.
6. Set Realistic Expectations
Every child learns and makes progress differently. Be patient and set achievable goals to avoid undue pressure, adapting to their individual pace and preferred way of working. For example, focus on completing one subject or task at a time.
7. Encourage Breaks
Long homework sessions can be overwhelming. Encourage short breaks to help your child recharge and maintain focus. A quick stretch, snack, or five minutes of play can make a big difference.
8. Communicate with Teachers
Keep in touch with your foster child’s teachers to understand homework expectations and track their progress. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice or share any concerns. Teachers can offer insights or suggest specific strategies tailored to your child’s needs.
9. Use Resources
Make use of resources like school-provided materials, online tools, and educational apps to support your child’s learning. Check out some of online resources we’ve found in the box below. These tools provide interactive and fun ways to grasp challenging topics.
10. Make Learning Fun
Incorporate games, quizzes, or creative activities into homework time to make it more enjoyable. For example, if they’re learning spellings, turn it into a fun challenge or use colourful flashcards.
Final Thoughts
Your support can make a world of difference in your foster child’s attitude toward homework and learning. By creating a positive and supportive homework routine, you’re helping them build confidence, resilience, and essential skills for life. Remember, it’s not just about completing assignments; it’s about fostering a love for learning and showing them that they are valued and capable.
So, set the stage, cheer them on, and celebrate their successes – big and small. Your encouragement might just be the key to unlocking their full potential!
