Stronger Starts Learning

parents supporting children learn

Practical Learning Support for Parents & Children

Practical, research-informed guidance for parents, plus focused learning programmes for children aged 4–11

When a little support can make a big difference

A child can be thriving in many areas of learning while encountering an obstacle in one particular area. Reading, maths, vocabulary or learning in a second language can all present challenges that, with the right approach, need not become lasting barriers.

Sometimes a child does not need long-term tutoring. A focused boost can identify an obstacle and help them move forward.

Short-term support can be particularly useful for:

  • Children in English-speaking international schools, where English is not their first language at home

  • Children who appear to lag behind in one subject compared with their other learning

  • Children who need to strengthen their spoken or written vocabulary

  • Children who are reluctant readers, or who struggle to find joy in reading

  • Children who lack confidence in a particular area, such as maths, reading or writing

  • Home-educated children who encounter an obstacle when learning a particular concept at home

Small obstacles can often be nipped in the bud before they become bigger barriers. Children are more likely to develop curiosity and a love of learning when they experience success.

Short-term learning boosts

A short series of focused sessions over 3–6 weeks can address a specific obstacle and give children (and parents) tools to continue using afterwards.

Programmes may focus on:

  • English language, reading or writing confidence

  • Vocabulary and handwriting

  • Phonics and spelling

  • Mental maths and number skills

  • Recording mathematical thinking

  • Flexibility in maths

  • Building strong foundations for future learning

Parent consultation & advice

Parents can also get practical, personalised advice on simply supporting learning at home, without pressure or creating school-at-home.

Consultations may cover:

  • Easy family learning games and 10-minute activities

  • Extending their play at home to enhance learning

  • Setting children up for test success

  • Understanding school reports

  • Mental maths and reading techniques

  • Building a strong vocabulary and talking/writing accurately

  • Easy wins for getting children off screens and building learning skills

  • Academic support for home-educating parents

  • Project-based learning advice for home-educating parents

Alice has 11 years’ experience teaching primary-aged children in leading International schools in Hong Kong and Portugal, as well as teaching at high-quality schools in the UK. She qualified as a teacher at University College London’s Institute of Education and is based in Hertfordshire, working with children and families in the UK and around the world.

Learn more about Alice and the approach behind Stronger Starts Learning