How much schooling do you do at home, esp. in hols?

[PeachyClair]

I had a meeting with Teacher (yr1) a few weeks ago, meant to post this then but haven't gotten round to it.

Basically, DS1 is still behind with writing / reading. They feel I am not doing enough at home and asked if I could put in a full day in the holidays / weekends and at least an hour on school days.

Now apart from the fact that I don't get half term at Uni, I personally feel that DS1 needs a rest over the holidays and to do other, non- school activities... such as the visit to Chepstow Castle earlier this week, and half term club where they are learning about other countries but dont write.

I feel strongly that DS1 is not progressing because of DS's current writing ability,a s opposed to me neglecting him. DS always has access to pens and paper and chooses to write a lot, constant access to art materials (he is creative), a book corner with comfy cushions andetc always available, and a Mum who likes to read with him, and praise him.

DS1 missed the first year stage of reading, as his old school didn't start until yr1 but this school started in reception (DS2 has had homework from second week or so of Reception). They do not feel however that taking himback to basics is worth it. He also is getting SENCO support (he has a dx of Aspergers Traits which is looking likely to be upgraded to full AS one day), but the SENCO is on long term sick leave, and although we have a list of stuff he's supposed to get, such as Maths work (he loves Maths but they won't introduce until he reaches a certain literacey stage, even though his talents are different) but the list is ignored.

I don't want to have to take the Teacher to task as I am having to go in and do that over bullying issues anyhow I think.

How much does anyone else do with their kids?
Would taking him back to reception stage be a viable option, given that his confidence is not high and I don't want to dent that? What happens if a SENCO is away, do the SN kids just lose out then?

I still firmly believe DS is very bright just not developing the literacy well, they seem to have him down as thick kid doesn't care Mother- SO not true!! His verbal skills are off the scale, as are his physical (as assessed by SN people).

none - not everyone can be scholar. thats why builders cost so much. :)

OMG i teach secondary school and would be delighted if i knew my GCSE students would do an hour per week for my subject on top of all their others. Its MADNESS - surely this would just add extra pressure on you and your child and you also have other two??

You sound v supportive but... WHAT YOU COULD DO.... try to include small sneaky little literacy tasks in everyday stuff like a special shopping list/reading at bedtime or your own little holiday project on your terms and at DS pace such as dinasoars but include loads of other fun stuff so its not just literacy - BUT SMALL TINY CHUNKS.

If you feel you do enough with your children already I wouldn't bother your DS sounds as if he does indeed have other areas that school has yet to tap into.

DS1 is in yr1, we do the homework sheet assignments most nights, that's all.
I feel confused reading your posts because I get the impression that my DS1 is about the same ability as your DS1 and yet my DS1 is about average in his class, no suggestion that he needs extra work.

NONE. well nothing formal. the kids read, the kids practice instruments, and they visit eduacjtoanl places.

I might get them to keep a diary for fun if we are doing something exciting.and if they want to.