|
A
Guide to Helping Your Children With Their Homework
Homework is an integral part of
every child�s education. It allows students the opportunity to practice
independently what has been studied in school. By
allowing them to examine and apply what they have learned, homework
helps students master the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful
students.
These are some helpful steps that
all parents can take to ensure that their child will complete their
homework assignments effectively.
Be a role model
Let your children know how important homework is to their education. Explain that
you remember being their age and having to complete assignments during nights
and weekends. Show them that you got through it and that they will as well.
Set up a homework routine
Children benefit from routines. Sit down with your
children and work out a schedule that will allow them to complete their homework and
have time to relax. Take their needs and interests into consideration; if their
favorite television show is on at 3:30, start "homework time" at 4:00.
Most importantly, remember to be consistent with the schedule. It usually takes
about three weeks before a routine becomes a habit. Give them the time and support
and they will respond.
Use positive reinforcement
Recognize your children for their effort. No matter the age, children often seek
approval from their parents. If your kids have been working especially hard, let
them know that you have noticed the improvement. If they have consistently shown
responsibility in completing their homework, tell them how proud you are of
them. If they resist doing homework, make certain that
they understand its importance. Discuss whatever difficulties they may be having
and try to arrive at solutions together.
Do not do the homework for them
While this may sound pretty elementary, you would be surprised how many parents
end up doing their children�s homework for them. This can occur as a result of
frustration, disappointment, or fear of failure. Needless to say, your child will
derive no benefit from you doing his/her homework. Without question, your time would be
better spent assessing your child�s difficulties and helping him/her work
through them.
Try not to walk them through
everything
Do not take this to mean that you should not help your children with their
homework. However, it is important to understand that it is their work and
their
responsibility. If they are getting frustrated, try showing them examples and
see if they can discover the solutions on their own. The key is to only give
them as much as help as they really need. That way, they will have the
opportunity to engage the materials that they are studying most effectively and
get the most benefit from their time.
Keep up relations with your
child�s teacher
From time to time, every child may experience stress regarding homework. By keeping up with what is going on in your children�s
classes, you will have a stronger understanding of the nature of their difficulties
and be better prepared to help them. The
relationship between teachers and parents is vital to every child�s education.
It is something that should never be taken for granted.
Check the homework
This may seem like the easiest suggestion, but it may be overlooked by many
parents and teachers. As students complete their homework, check to see if they
understand the subject matter. For some kids, it may be easier to check homework
in sections, as each subject�s work is accomplished. For others, it may be
easier to check over everything when they are finished completely. See which
system works best for your child and go on from there.
| 
