Easy Ways Teachers Can Help Families Support Learning at Home
As early childhood educators, we know that families are a child’s first and most important teachers. But many parents and caregivers aren’t sure how to support learning at home, especially when life is busy, or school feels like a separate world. The good news? Teachers can play a key role in bridging the gap and making home learning feel easy, accessible, and meaningful.
Here are simple ways you can help families support learning beyond the classroom:
1. Encourage Everyday Learning Moments
Help families see that learning happens all the time, not just during formal activities. Share ideas for how to build skills during daily routines like:
Counting while setting the table
Talking about what they see on a walk
Reading signs at the grocery store
Quick tips like these can be shared in newsletters, at pick-up time, or during conferences.
2. Send Home Books and Materials
If possible, create a rotating book bag or learning kit that children can bring home. Include books, crayons, paper, or simple games. Add a short note explaining how families can use them (“Read together and ask your child what they think will happen next!”).
3. Model and Explain During Drop-Off or Pick-Up
Use small windows of time to model how to talk or play in a way that supports learning. For example, narrate what a child is doing (“She’s building a tall tower—look how she’s balancing the blocks!”), then encourage families to try something similar at home.
4. Share Simple Activity Ideas
Not every family wants or needs a packet of worksheets. Instead, send home low-prep ideas like:
“Go on a shape hunt around your home!”
“Draw a picture of your favorite animal and tell someone about it.”
“Practice taking turns by playing a game together.”
Short, clear suggestions help families feel confident and empowered.
5. Celebrate Family Efforts
Acknowledge and celebrate what families are already doing to support their child. A kind word, a quick note, or a display of family photos or home projects can go a long way in building trust and connection.
6. Use Multiple Ways to Communicate
Not all families prefer the same method of communication. Use a mix of:
Text or messaging apps
Paper handouts
Emails or newsletters
In-person chats
The goal is to make learning support feel easy and doable—not like one more thing on a parent’s to-do list.
7. Offer Learning Goals in Family-Friendly Language
Explain what you’re working on in the classroom (e.g., “We’re learning to recognize letters”) and how families can help (“Point out letters on signs or food packages”). When families understand the why and how, they’re more likely to get involved.
8. Build a Partnership, Not Pressure
Make it clear that there’s no “right” way to support learning at home. Offer encouragement, validate families’ strengths, and emphasize that what they’re already doing—talking, playing, listening—matters deeply.
Final Thoughts
By making learning feel simple and showing families that their everyday interactions are powerful, teachers can foster meaningful home-school connections. When families feel supported and confident, everyone benefits—especially the children.
