Homework provides learners with opportunities to revisit the work that they have done in school, and for parents to see what is being learned. It can help learners develop positive study habits and to develop independent learning skills. However, for pupils who have Down’s syndrome it can also provide additional challenges.

It is important to link homework to classroom work, and that teachers modify homework to meet the individual learner’s abilities and learning requirements. Homework should be seen as an integral part of learning, rather than an extra piece of work. Homework definitely should not be used as a punishment or penalty for poor performance in the classroom by a learner who has Down’s syndrome or just to catch up on work they have not completed in the dedicated time allocated.

Homework for learners who have Down’s syndrome should be differentiated to ensure that they can be successful in their homework, with minimal support from their parents. Do not assume that parents will be able to dedicate significant amounts of time to supporting their child’s home learning, instead ensure that the work is differentiated and that the instructions are clearly presented, to ensure that the learner who has Down’s syndrome can complete as much as possible on their own. Always start with what you know they can do, to ensure that they can succeed.