THE PARENT'S ENGLISH LAB

Practical reading, writing, and learning strategies for middle and high school students—and the parents who support them.

Your Student Does Not Have to Love English Class

Your Student Does Not Have to Love English Class

Your Student Does Not Have to Love English ClassVirginia Taylor
Published on: 24/08/2026

Your student doesn’t have to love English to succeed in it. Not liking something and not being able to do it are two very different things. Learn why realistic expectations, the right support, and less pressure can build real confidence.

Ms. Virginia Says...
Does My Homeschool Student Need an English Curriculum—or an English Tutor?

Does My Homeschool Student Need an English Curriculum—or an English Tutor?

Does My Homeschool Student Need an English Curriculum—or an English Tutor?Virginia Taylor
Published on: 17/08/2026

Wondering whether your homeschool student needs a new English curriculum or an English tutor? Learn how to spot the difference, identify where your student is getting stuck, and decide when individualized writing and reading support may help.

Homeschool Corner
Why Editing Too Soon Gets in the Way of Good Writing

Why Editing Too Soon Gets in the Way of Good Writing

Why Editing Too Soon Gets in the Way of Good WritingVirginia Taylor
Published on: 10/08/2026

When students edit every sentence as they write, good ideas can get lost. Learn why writing the first draft before editing can help students write with more confidence.

Writing Lab
When the Writing Prompt Is the Problem - Helping middle school students understand what an assignment is really asking

When the Writing Prompt Is the Problem - Helping middle school students understand what an assignment is really asking

When the Writing Prompt Is the Problem - Helping middle school students understand what an assignment is really askingVirginia Taylor
Published on: 03/08/2026

Learn how to help students translate confusing writing prompts, recognize figurative language, and understand what an assignment is really asking. Sometimes students have plenty of ideas—but no idea what the assignment wants from them.

Writing Lab