The Clara James Approach to learning

Jenga. How is Jenga relevant to maths or English?

I had to ask myself how I could make it relevant, and actually over the past couple of years since it was first suggested as a handwriting aid, we have found multiple ways to incorporate it into both maths and English for both younger students and, believe it or not, GCSE students.

In this podcast we will talk you through how you can incorporate times-tables, number bonds, punctuation, grammatical terminology, into this fun (and slightly addictive) game.

Hello. Today, I'll discuss times tables as they're fundamental to math, and without them, advancing in math is difficult. It's important for children to have multiple ways of recalling information rather than relying on repetitive worksheets.

Parents can help by using various methods like card games or tic-tac-toe with times tables questions. These engaging activities reinforce learning in a fun way.

When teaching times tables, it’s better not to follow the order 1-12 but start with easy ones like 2s, 5s, 10s, and then move onto tricks for others like the nines. For instance, when multiplying by nine you can use finger tricks or add up digits in your answer to see if they total nine—this confirms you've got it right.

For harder tables like sevens or sixes break them down using known facts from easier tables. Slow and steady learning ensures solid understanding before moving forward.

To support this learning process we send out resources via email including games and colouring activities linked to different times tables each month. If interested in our Clara James approach membership group at £3.50 a month offers additional resources.

If these tips could be valuable for you let me know so I can add you to our mailing list which also includes weekly emails with ideas supporting primary and secondary education along with updates on new materials and giveaways.

Thank you for listening—I'm Dawn from Clara James Tutoring where we aim to make learning enjoyable every day!

The Clara James Approach

Support your child with their times tables - The fun way! (sendfox.com)

#timestables #maths #parenting #education #homeschooling  #homeeducation #clarajamestutoring #creativelearning

Before Christmas, I spoke with parents about creating revision plans for their kids.

So, I thought revision would be a good place to start with these Podcasts as exams catch up with all of us at some stage...

I think one of the key things we need our kids to grasp is 'why.' Encouraging them to identify their motivation sets a foundation for focused and purpose-driven study habits. For some it may just be about getting through the exams so that they never need to do that subject again, for others it’s about connecting efforts today with future goals of college or careers in that field.

Trying not to waffle (I can chatter about this all day...) here are some suggestions that might help:

Revision is something completely unique to your child.

But before they start I would get them to spend a few minutes now having an honest brain dump with themself about what their goals are, what they feel confident about, what scares them. What support do they think you’re going to need to get the grades they want, where could they find that support. Also jot down anything else that comes to mind as they write.

Doing this will help to focus them, but at the same time, in a couple of weeks, or months they can look back and check their progress. If none has been made, they can ask themself why, what do they need to change?

Encourage and congratulate them and reassure them that they are heading in the right direction.

Remember, this is just for them, so be honest with themselves when they write, no one else needs to see this unless they choose to show it to you..

I'll also offer you some  generic suggestions for you to help you to get started.

If you're interested in the revision guides, check them out here:

The Revision Planner

The Revision Log

Getting to Grips with Angles

Square Pegs

#revision
#parenting
#learning
#studyskills
#education
#examtechniques
#GCSE

Welcome to the first Clara James podcast, aimed at helping you support children's learning. Whether they're yours or not, as a tutor, a parent, or teacher, we'll discuss adapting resources for better accessibility.

Years ago in math class, I struggled with something we were learning until my dad used apples and scales to explain it. That personal approach made all the difference. Recognizing that each child is unique—whether they have ADHD, autism, or other challenges—it's crucial to tailor our methods accordingly.

I began my career in childcare over two decades ago while raising three young kids. Starting as a volunteer led me to various roles and eventually tutoring—a profession I've grown to love because of its creative potential.

In teaching, using diverse activities instead of repetitive worksheets helps create stronger memories for students. Games like Bingo or Tic Tac Toe can make learning times tables engaging and enjoyable.

Our philosophy is simple: teach in ways that resonate with children. The podcast shares strategies you might adapt for your own use—after all, effective teaching often means changing our explanations rather than expecting kids to change how they learn.

Join us on this journey through the Clara James podcast as we explore supportive techniques from reception up through secondary school. Thank you for tuning in!

#parenting #learning #education #specialneeds #clarajamesapproach