|
TEN HOMEWORK TIPS
|
1. Keep in touch with the teacher to be fully aware of the homework, the children will do better in school. In my class this can be done by making sure the assignment book is filled in everyday with the assignments for all six subjects. 2. Set a schedule, include both a beginning and an end time. Most kids need some time to unwind after school before they tackle their homework. Doing it too close to bedtime may make it difficult due to fatigue. Fridays are usually the best day for homework that must be completed over the weekend. Assignments are still fresh in mind and the last minute panic rush can be avoided. 3. Encourage your child to divide the homework assignment into what can be done by themself, and with what they need help. You should help only with that part of the homework your child cannot do independently. 4. Use "Grandma's Rule." Remember that Grandma is reputed to have said that there would be no dessert until the spinach was finished. In our case today, hold off on using televisions, radios, electronic games or other fun activities until the homework has been completed. 5. Provide a home study center for your child that contains adequate light and few distractions. If your child concentrates better with peaceful, easy listening music, then provide that help. A dictionary, thesaurus, pencils, paper, pens should also be readily available. 6. Use direct praise for doing the homework and even more when it is accomplished. Use praise like, "You've spelled 13 out of the 15 words correctly. That is the best you have done this year!" 7. Be available when your child is doing homework so that you can answer a question if there is confusion. It is better for you to be in another room. That way you can be easily accessible yet not a distraction. 8. Look over the homework when it has been completed. Do not correct it unless you have checked with the teacher first. It is often helpful for the teacher to see patterns in the errors. 9. Study groups are a good strategy. Your child may benefit from studying with one or two classmates. However, make sure they are using the time to study. 10. Allow breaks for drinks, snacks, or use of the bathroom, but insist on the completion of the tasks.
This is taken from the Parent Journal |