Pippa21

Homework for young children is not necessary and does little to add to their learning IMO, it's just another tick-box exercise for teachers. They don't like setting it or marking it, and rather than letting children relax at home after doing their best all day, you become the 'bad-guy' by having to make them do it. Homework at this age is not learning, it is at best repeating what they already know. My daughter's infant school didn't set homework but rather used to send home suggestions which they could decide to do over half term holiday e.g. go for an Autumn walk, collect leaves to make a picture, try something new, make a cake, read something funny, and so it went on. We marked off the list the things we had enjoyed doing, and felt good about all the new experiences we had shared........ I am a Primary (and Secondary) teacher, believe me Homework is unnecessary, and not a legal requirement. If it is causing stress and the child is over-tired, just tell the teacher, it's one less thing for them to mark!

Anyone coming to The Crooked Well on Tuesday 2nd Sept? Lovely coffee and pastries for those expecting a baby and for those with little ones. If you are on maternity leave why not pop in and say hello, there's a warm welcome and a chance to meet other parents. Hope to see you there.

2 spaces left on the Returning to Work Workshop on Sept 8th. If interested please contact Alison: bookings4h@nct.org.uk

Wondering what it's going to be like going back to work after having a baby? The NCT is running a Returning to Work workshop on Monday 8 September at Christ Church, Barry Road. The workshop will look at the practical and emotional aspects of returning to work, and ways to deal with the challenges which may arise. We will cover topics such as your career, childcare, work/life balance, looking after you and your relationships and what to do if things aren?t working out. It will also explore practical steps for dealing with the first days and weeks of returning to work. The workshop can be attended at any point during maternity or paternity leave but is probably most valuable for parents who are returning to work in a few weeks or months and are starting to think about the practicalities involved. For more information or to book your place, please contact Alison on bookings4h@nct.org.uk.