Homework serves many purposes. It gives youth an opportunity to reinforce learning, follow directions, apply research skills and focus their attention. The trick to ending homework hassles is figuring out a system that gets the job done with the least amount of headaches.
No matter what system you and your child use, there are several tips that will help ease the homework hassle.
Get involved. A U.S. Department of Education report confirmed what many teachers have observed in their classrooms for years - kids whose parents get involved in their education have a greater chance for school success. Talk positively about school with your child and express an interest in your child’s work.
Get to know your child’s teacher. A brief discussion with your child’s teacher can yield information about how frequently homework is assigned, what kind of homework to expect, how long the homework should take and what your level of involvement should be.
Establish a daily family routine. Sticking to a schedule for getting up, doing homework and chores, plus eating supper, create a powerful sense of belonging and security for children.
Schedule daily homework time. It’s a good idea to set aside time each day when every child does homework.
Minimize frustrations by being around for your child. Researchers say children do better when their parents encourage them during homework. After a while, children start to internalize these messages, increasing their ability and confidence to handle challenging homework assignments.
Children perform homework best in individualized settings. Some children do well in solitary confinement while others need the company of others to complete homework.
If your child does best in the company of others, you can plan to write letters, pay bills or organize yourself during the daily homework time. You will get needed things done while your child benefits from your reassuring presence.
Use television wisely. Studies show academic achievement drops sharply for youth who watch television more than 10 hours a week. Limit children’s viewing time, help them select appropriate programs and insist that schoolwork be done before they turn on the tube.
Make a home library by keeping daily newspapers, magazines, research materials and maps available for your child’s use. At the public library, check out books that interest your child and try to connect the books to what’s going on in school.
By utilizing these simple steps, you can look forward to a positive school year.
