Helping with the homework

My daughter is busy doing homework on the book by Willy Russell: Educating Rita. Having been captivated by the film in the early 80s, I suggested we get it out on dvd, to which she agreed happily.

I was reminded of my days at secondary school, and how the critique of literary works was the highlight of my English lessons. It was always fascinating to me that so many different points of view on one book could be contained within one class of students. I enjoyed hearing their views and having my own perspective broadened and stretched.

As my siblings and I reached the higher years in secondary school, my mother would always read the books on our book list. It was her way of supporting us in a practical way with our English schoolwork. We would discuss the various plots and characters whilst doing the dishes together after the evening meal. She would ask questions, challenging us to think about the book from different angles, and ensuring that any sweeping statements in our essays could be backed up with evidence. It helped us enormously to know mum was there when we were stuck.

I've always appreciated that my mum did that, and I'm glad there is an opportunity for me to do that for my daughter now. As my daughter gets older, she needs me less and naturally wants to assert her own way of doing things, so it's gratifying to still be of use and to know that I'll be there for her when she is stuck.