Read. Often.

If we could recommend one habit for every child, it would be reading.

Reading widely and regularly supports learning far beyond English. Large-scale research has found a strong relationship between reading ability and achievement across the curriculum, including subjects such as maths.

It doesn't have to be a child alone with a novel

Read together. Read to them. Listen to audiobooks. Talk about stories, words and ideas. Keep reading aloud to your children throughout primary school, and for as long as they'll let you.

Little and often

For younger children, regular times-table practice is another small habit that pays dividends. Keep it short, frequent and varied. It doesn't have to happen sitting at a table.

Beyond homework

Learning doesn't only happen at a desk. Conversation with adults, reading, being outdoors, pursuing interests and simply having time to think all have value.

The aim is not to fill childhood with more schoolwork. It's to build the habits, skills and confidence that gradually let children become independent learners.