The following has been taken from the Dept. of Education & Science Guidelines for Parents.
How Can I Help my Children Learn at School?
Recent research has shown a strong connection between success in school and the type of support parents give to their children. The findings of this research emphasise a number of important things that you as parents and guardians can do to help your children to do well in school.
Your Child and the School
take an interest in your children's progress in school
talk to them about what happens in school
talk to them about what they are learning
help your children with their homework in an appropriate way
Your Expectations
have high expectations of your children but always recognise their particular strengths and weaknesses
praise and encourage them
Stimulating children and widening their horizons
read to your children, tell them stories and encourage them to talk about the characters in the stories and what happens to them
bring your children on outings to concerts, to plays (including those presented by local amateur groups) and become involved with them in different leisure activities
Contact with the school.
have an active and helpful relationship with the school
have regular communication with your children's class teachers
participate in and attend school activities