Sharing a book with a child is fun! It's a time for closeness, laughing and talking together – and it can also give children a flying start in life and help them become lifelong readers. Try to find some time each day to read with your child.

If your child is not reading yet, remember you can still share a story and make it as fun as you can. Your child may or may not understand the words, but they will love cuddling up, hearing your voice, and looking at the pictures. If you speak a language other than English, read a story in your home language. This will be just as beneficial. 

If your child is reading, listen to them and ask them lots of questions about the book. Remember, turn off the TV, radio and computer when you are reading with your child. It’s easier for both of you to enjoy the story without any other distractions.

Nessy Reading and Spelling 
If the SENCo has given you a login for Nessy, you can login in here. 

1. Visit the Nessy landing page 

2. Click Log in to Learn (green button) 

3. Enter the secret word (contact the SENCo, if you have lost this). 

4. Enter your first name 

5. Click on your name and then select Nessy Reading and Spelling. 

Supporting your child in developing their maths skills doesn’t have to mean complicated fractions or expert knowledge! Applying numeracy skills to real-life situations is really important. 

Getting your child involved in food preparation, cooking, and serving can help children practise maths skills like counting, measuring, and using ratios.

When taking a walk, ask your child to look out for and keep count of how many cars they spot. Older children can think about and estimate how many steps the walk might take, how far you are going, and how long it will take. 

Finally, bring maths into story time. Practise using position words when looking at picture books, asking questions like ‘What is behind the boy?’ and ‘What can you see under the table?’. This can help young children to think about space, shapes, and position.