HOMEWORK HOTLINE...

Myth:  ALL children LOVE to do homework!
Fact:  MANY children CAN'T STAND homework!

I am sure at some point you have had the "homework battle."  You may even have had that very "battle" today!  Over the last several years I have worked with parents that have spent years engaged in the "battle" over homework.  Once the "battle" ensues, the result is frustration, anger, resentment, low-self esteem, lack of confidence, and eventually a damaged relationship between parent and child. If you find that the homework "battle" is ensuing at your home, please do not hesitate to contact me and I will join forces with you to implement some type of system with your child so that we may keep that line of communication open.  Otherwise, feel free to jot me a note on their agenda at any time! 

Happy Homework!!!!!

 

Other Homework Strategies:

Homework Hint #1 - Choose a well lit, quiet place at home to do homework.  Even if most homework is completed at another location after school, there still should be a place in the home in which to study and work. 

Homework Hint #2 - Keep the TV and radio off while homework is being done.  Also, whenever possible, keep the study area off limits to brothers and sisters during homework time unless your children can work in the same area together without being too much of a distraction to each other.

Homework Hint #3 - Put together a kit that contains the materials usually needed to complete homework assignments.  Such a kit could include pencils, markers, crayons, scissors, glue, tape, etc.

Homework Hint #4 - Schedule a specific time each day for homework.  For young children the best time is often as soon as they arrive home at the end of the day.  This may or may not work for your child, so experiment.  However, when you find what works, be as consistent as possible and post your homework schedule so that ALL can see!

Homework Hint #5 - By encouraging children to work on their own, a parent helps develop important life skills such as following directions.  This may not be possible for younger children at first, however you can build up to more independence.  Perhaps help them figure out what to do and then walk away while they finish the problem.  You may also do something (read a book, pay bills, make the grocery list) near them so help them move along.

Homework Hint #6 - Children need encouragement and support from the people whose opinions they value the most - their parents.  Your consistent praise can encourage your child to feel good about his or her ability and motivate your child to do his or her best work.  Praise your child's efforts every day.  It is, after all, the day-to-day efforts that will lead to higher achievement in school!