As educators at Redwood Literacy, we know just how much impact parents can have on their child’s learning success. I recently asked our teacher team: What’s your #1 tip for parents helping their child thrive during Redwood sessions? Their responses were so thoughtful that I turned them into this parent playbook. I’ve even added some research-backed wisdom for motivation through hydration, snacks, and routines.

‍

1. Create a Focused, Personalized Learning Zone

‍

Teachers say a reliable device matters, but what matters most is setting the stage. Your child should sit upright at a desk or table, not lounging in bed. Ideally, the space is free from visual and audio distractions. But if total quiet doesn’t work for your child, soft background music or white noise through headphones can help them concentrate.

2. Organize Your Child’s Learning Kit

‍

Nothing wastes precious learning time like hunting for pencils or paper mid-session. Create a “learning kit” with sharpened pencils or markers, a fun notebook, plenty of paper, and even special writing utensils, emphasizing the importance of the child’s learning. It is the simple touches that say, “This time matters.”

‍

3. Build Simple Pre-Session Routines

‍

These small but mighty routines help start sessions calm, energized, and interruption-free. Have your child:

• Eat a healthy snack beforehand,
• Use the bathroom,
• Fill a spill-proof water bottle (bonus points for icy or electrolyte-infused water to keep them alert and hydrated).

‍

4. Support Without Hovering

‍

We love to see a child being supported by their family, and yet our Redwood teachers appreciate it when parents set things up, then step back. You being nearby is fine, but too many voices can pull a student’s focus. Let your child and their teacher lead the session; your role is facilitation, not participation. 

‍

5. Motivate with Smart Incentives

‍

Research shows incentives can boost engagement, especially when tasks are challenging. You don’t need over-the-top rewards: simple things like screen time, extra playdates, or a small treat each week can make a difference. Use Redwood’s monthly progress emails or participation scores as a checkpoint, then watch their transformation unfold.

‍

Pro Tip: Offer rewards strategically to avoid crowding out your child's internal motivation. When done right, especially for tasks kids find less naturally appealing, extrinsic rewards can spark initial engagement and build toward intrinsic interest.

‍

6. Let Relationships Be the Heart of It

‍

Above all, the magic lies in relationships. When children feel seen, heard, and cared for, they bring their best to each Redwood Literacy session. The routines and tools are scaffolded, and the real power is in emotional connection.

‍