As a parent, you want your kid to thrive in school, but sometimes the classroom alone isn’t enough to help them reach their full potential. Supplementing what they’re learning with activities at home can make a big difference, whether they’re struggling to keep up or itching for more challenge. Here’s how you can support their education outside the school walls, with evidence showing these methods work.
Hands-On Learning at Home
One of the easiest ways to reinforce school lessons is by turning everyday moments into learning opportunities. For younger kids, this could mean practicing math by measuring ingredients while cooking together or building vocabulary by reading bedtime stories and discussing new words. For older kids, try tying their schoolwork to real-world applications—like calculating a budget for a family outing to practice math or exploring historical events through documentaries.
A 2020 study found that connecting school content to real-life scenarios improves retention and engagement, as it makes learning feel relevant.
Extracurricular Activities
Clubs, sports, or hobbies like coding, music, or debate can build skills that complement schoolwork. These activities foster critical thinking, teamwork, and discipline, which carry over into academics. For instance, a kid in a robotics club might get better at problem-solving, which helps with math or science.
Research from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that students involved in extracurriculars often have higher grades and better attendance than those who aren’t. Encourage your kid to pick something they’re genuinely interested in, so it doesn’t feel like another chore.
Online Tutoring: A Game-Changer
Online tutoring is a flexible, powerful way to support your kid’s learning, especially if they need help in specific subjects or want to get ahead. Unlike traditional tutoring, it’s often more affordable and convenient, with sessions you can schedule around busy family life.
A 2024 randomized controlled trial showed that an eight-week online math tutoring program for disadvantaged secondary school students boosted test scores by 0.26 standard deviations and improved grades by 0.49 standard deviations. That’s a serious jump! Tutors can tailor lessons to your kid’s needs, teaching study skills like note-taking or time management that stick with them. TutorUp offers one-on-one online tutoring, exclusively with qualified teachers.
Study Groups and Peer Learning
Encourage your kid to form study groups with classmates, either in person or virtually. Discussing concepts with peers helps solidify understanding and builds communication skills. A 2022 study on peer tutoring in higher education found that students in small-group sessions earned 30% more credits and improved their GPA by about one grade level compared to those who didn’t participate. Set up a weekly Zoom call or a library meetup where kids can quiz each other or work on projects together. It’s low-cost and builds independence.
Educational Apps and Games
There’s no shortage of apps designed to make learning fun. Platforms like Duolingo for languages or Prodigy for math turn practice into games, which can keep kids engaged without feeling like “work.” A 2023 study on a virtual literacy tutoring program found that students using a structured online platform improved their reading scores by 0.08 standard deviations. These tools are great for reinforcing concepts or introducing new ones, especially for kids who love screen time. Just make sure to balance it with offline activities.
Making It Work
The key is to mix and match these activities based on your kid’s needs and interests. Talk to their teachers to pinpoint gaps or strengths, and don’t overdo it—kids need downtime too. Whether it’s baking fractions, joining a chess club, or logging into an online tutoring session, these supplements can build confidence and skills. The evidence is clear: tailored support outside the classroom can set your kid up for success now and in the future.
