Adapting to different learning needs

Thrive in school, get support at home, and adapt your approach if your child has Additional Support Needs. Charlotte Gater, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning, shares her top tips for families on adapting to different learning needs.

Knowledge is power

Schools have different elements that make up their learning plan. There are things they must teach to follow the national curriculum, but they will also cover areas specific to that school. This might include topics related to your local area or lessons based on your school’s values. Your school’s website will contain information about the curriculum for each year group - take a look to see what your child will be learning.

Encourage your child to have a go

This is especially important when something is challenging. At Explore Learning, we encourage children to be fearless learners, which ensures they have a positive attitude towards learning. Your child is unlikely to get everything right the first time, and this can put some children off trying again. Encourage them to have a go whilst letting them know it’s ok to make mistakes and keep trying.

Get involved with school life

Whether this is volunteering in class, following the school’s Twitter account, joining the PTA, attending meetings or reading the newsletter, try to get involved wherever you can. It will all help to keep you up to date with what's happening in school and the current themes being taught.

Ask your child questions about their day

Who hasn’t experienced asking their child ‘How was your day?’ and getting the ‘fine’ response? By asking questions that encourage your child to give more informative answers, you can then engage in much better conversations about their learning. Try some of these:

• What have you learnt today?

• How did you contribute in class today?

• What did you enjoy most about school today?

• Was anything challenging?

• Can you teach me something you’ve learned today?

Finding the right path for them

This is key when supporting children with additional support needs. Every child is unique and may need different resources, environments or support to scaffold their learning. Numerous websites can provide information and support for specific additional support needs. Some also direct you towards families in a similar situation; talking through ideas with others will help you find new ways to support your child.

Don’t be afraid to seek help

If you don’t understand a method or topic, there are many things you can do to find this information. Try looking at BBC Bitesize, as there are lots of videos explaining different topics. Watch them to up-skill yourself or watch them with your child so you can learn together.

Speak to a tutor

At Explore Learning, we have regular meetings and information sessions for parents. These will help you understand the curriculum, so you can confidently support your child. Talk to their teacher if you want help understanding what your child is learning too, as many schools offer sessions for parents. You may get the opportunity to try out some questions, so be brave, have a go and show your children how to be fearless when it comes to learning.

Every child’s strengths and challenges are different. We have the experience and environment to enable your child to progress and succeed academically – making friends along the way! Find out how we help children with different abilities.