Homework, Five Tips For Parents

Homework! Every child has it, so there's no getting around it. Try these tips when dealing with this after school ritual.

Recess First:

Children spend the entire day in a structured environment. Why not let them relax once they get home. Allow them to lay on the floor in front of the television for a time with a snack or play outside with their friends. After this recess from school their minds will be clearer and more receptive toward tackling homework.

A Comfortable Place:

Let your children discover what works best for them when completing homework. Most parents don't allow their children to watch television, or they expect them to sit at table or desk. Classrooms have constant interruptions therefore, children learn to tune out noise. If your child can complete his homework assignments laying in front of the television or listening to music then why worry about it. Of course, if the music or television interferes then turn it OFF!

Make A Time for Homework:

Kids today are involved in sports, music lessons and other activities. Make sure their schedules aren't overloaded after school. The general rule for homework is: first grade 10 minutes, second grade 20 minutes, third grade 30 minutes, and so on. The amount of homework your child receives should be commensurate to their grade grade level. If your child is having difficulty with homework then they're probably having trouble at school as well.

Help Them Become Independent:

Many times young children come home excited with homework and are eager to get started. You want them become independent learners - encourage their enthusiasm. Leave them alone and don't interfere, even if they're completing an assignment wrong. They'll figure this out later and know when to ask for help. On the other hand, if you know your child usually has homework and fails to get started, help them get organized and started. Provide a choice of times and places for them to do homework.

Avoid Punishment:

Disciplining your child for not completing homework usually doesn't work. Creating a reward system is usually more effective. Realize that many kids see homework as a waste of time - busy work, especially if it's too easy. Other reason could be: its too difficult, there are problems at school with the teacher or other students. Find out why and go from there there.

Parents are their childrens' first teachers. They can send the message that school is important, when they help with homework.

Carol Fraser Boles has a Master's degree in Special Reading and an Educational Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She has more than ten years experience teaching K-12 reading in public schools. She now manages her own business and is a member of the Lieurance Group, a freelance writer's cooperative. Find out more about her writing services at http://www.lieurancegroup.blogspot.com. For more tips on education and parenting visit her blog at http://www.teacherspetplace.blogspot.com or email her at Cwrites-56@hotmail.com

 

Additional Resources:

Frontline Phonics
A complete system with everything you need to teach your child to read.