Covid-19 presented many challenges — especially for education. School closures across the country means students are now falling behind. The UK government proposed extending the school day to 5pm. For many families, this form of catch up education simply isn’t feasible. It’s already hard enough to keep kids motivated! Instead, we’ve put together 6 simple and more appealing catch up education ideas to help your children get back on track.
Broaden the reading list
Ofsted revealed that KS1 and KS2 pupils are underperforming in reading and writing skills. So, to combat this, it’s worth sitting down with your children and engaging them to read. Choose a selection of books for their age range, then spend 30 minutes a day analysing and reading the text. Make this part of your daily routine, replacing screen-time with reading.
Not only is reading going to improve literary skills, but also general knowledge. Some books even combine different themes, like Madeline Miller’s spin on Greek mythology. This is a great way for children to learn about topics, without the unnecessary stress that comes with learning.
Listen to educational podcasts
Podcasts are a great passive learning tool — kids (and parents!) learn without even realising. You can listen to it in the car on the way to school or while eating breakfast. Even having an episode on in the background allows your brain to absorb information. Again, this is much more intuitive than watching TV.
There are a plethora of educational podcasts available online. You can find specific ones related to any subject of your choosing and level. We recommend: Revise GCSE Maths Revision, Coffee Break Spanish (or French), Fun Kids Science Weekly, Homeschool History.
Hire an online tutor
Many parents are looking towards private tuition to help their children catch up on missed school. Studies show that just one lesson with a tutor can boost students’ confidence and grades. But with busy schedules and safety concerns, some are put off by this route. Thankfully, there are trusted online platforms like Tutor House that can help.
Tutor House matches you with a private tutor who meets your needs from just £20/hr. Through online learning, your child can study from the comfort of your own home at a flexible time that suits you. They also used a nifty programme called “Whiteboard” allowing you to track your child’s goals and progress. All with the click of a button!
Go to a museum
Now that the world is somewhat going back to normal, this means museums have re-opened. This is a fun and interactive way to learn. There are tour guides for specific exhibitions who provide detailed insight into key educational topics. Most of which are on the curriculum too!
Why not visit the Natural History Museum and learn about the Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun? Or go to the Science Museum and discover the making of the modern world. Entry is generally free, save for some exhibitions which are paid. Most will have discounts for families and children up to 16 years old.
Offer a helping hand
Your child might be feeling a little overwhelmed. Suffice to say, it’s been a rollercoaster for them too! It wasn’t their fault that schools closed and now they have to pay the price. So if you notice your child is feeling a bit stressed out, just give them a helping hand.
With schools re-opening, they might have extra homework or catch-up classes. Carve out some time in your busy day to sit down with them and learn together. Alternatively, you can create a “study plan” calendar to track what work they need to do and when. This will help them organise their time better and keep on top of their studies. If your child is struggling in particular with maths here are 10 ways to help your child with maths.
Organise a study group
The lack of social interaction during the pandemic has left everyone feeling a bit low. Children miss their friends and playing outside. So to get the best of both worlds, organise a study group with your child’s schoolmates.
You can arrange a group study session online or in-person, depending on lockdown restrictions. For example, you could use Zoom or FaceTime to connect everyone and go through learning material together. Just choose the subject and questions to discuss; or find some online resources on YouTube that they can watch.
Studies show that group learning improves students’ test scores and comprehension of classroom material. What a result!
Last but not least…
A parent’s job is no easy task — so don’t forget to look after yourselves too and don’t get too swept away in the media pressure around catch up education. Whilst missed education is an issue, your health and wellbeing come first. Hopefully, these simple tips on catch up education will take some of the pressure off your shoulders. Remember: not all heroes wear capes!
Photo by Robo Wunderkind on Unsplash
Author bio
Naida is a witty wordsmith with a love for writing and reading. She is a Content Writer and Social Media Executive at Tutor House — the top UK provider of online and in-person tuition. She specialises in topics relating to mental & physical wellbeing and career advice.
