At this point, most children have started the new school year, and back-to-school also means back-to-homework.
One of the things that parents can do to make homework go more smoothly is to establish a clear routine. During the summer it is very easy to let things slide – bedtime, video games, TV time, etc. However, once school begins, kids should get back into a regular routine.
To establish a homework routine, there are several things that parents can do. First, find a consistent place in the house where homework can be done. Some children work well at a desk in their bedroom (away from noise and distractions), while others like the dining room table. Some children prefer to work on their own, while others need to have parents close by to help keep them on task or answer questions.
Once you have identified a homework spot, it is important to make sure that your child has all of the supplies that he/she needs to complete homework (e.g., ruler, pencils, crayons, scissors, glue, dictionary, paper, etc.). This can help cut down on wasted time spent searching for homework supplies or materials.
Finally, set a consistent homework time. It is important for your child to get in the habit of doing homework at the same time every day. Some children may need to start homework as soon as they come in the door while others benefit from a short break. Whatever you and your child decide is okay, just make sure that it is at the same time each day (e.g., 3:00 – 3:30 or 4:15 – 5:00). Keep in mind that it is important to get homework done before dinner or as early in the evening as possible. Once your child gets tired, completing homework gets harder and harder.
How much help your child needs during homework depends on the age and needs of the child. Even with young children, you can help them get started, but try not to get into the habit of hovering or overseeing their work every minute. You can begin by reading the directions together (underlining important words) or doing the first few problems together. However, once you’ve gotten him/her started, then back away. You can remain close by to answer questions or help your child stay on task, but do not do the work for your child.
Some children may need an incentive to finish homework (e.g., “When you finish your homework, you can watch TV or play outside”), while others may need a short break between assignments (e.g., five minutes to get a snack or play one level on a video game). Pay attention to what works best for your child and how he/she likes to study. This will help him or her establish the habits needed to be successful throughout the school years.
Finally, set a consistent homework time. It is important for your child to get in the habit of doing homework at the same time every day. Some children may need to start homework as soon as they come in the door while others benefit from a short break. Whatever you and your child decide is okay, just make sure that it is at the same time each day (e.g., 3:00 – 3:30 or 4:15 – 5:00). Keep in mind that it is important to get homework done before dinner or as early in the evening as possible. Once your child gets tired, completing homework gets harder and harder.
How much help your child needs during homework depends on the age and needs of the child. Even with young children, you can help them get started, but try not to get into the habit of hovering or overseeing their work every minute. You can begin by reading the directions together (underlining important words) or doing the first few problems together. However, once you’ve gotten him/her started, then back away. You can remain close by to answer questions or help your child stay on task, but do not do the work for your child.
Some children may need an incentive to finish homework (e.g., “When you finish your homework, you can watch TV or play outside”), while others may need a short break between assignments (e.g., five minutes to get a snack or play one level on a video game). Pay attention to what works best for your child and how he/she likes to study. This will help him or her establish the habits needed to be successful throughout the school years.
For more information on how parents can help children with homework, go to the following websites:
http://www.scholastic.com/parents/resources/collection/homework-project-tips/homework-help
http://www.pbs.org/parents/education/going-to-school/supporting-your-learner/homework-help/