- Know the teacher's homework policies and expectations. Some schools even have online or voicemail programs that let parents review new assignments daily.
- Make homework a priority in your home. Tell your child how important it is to complete each assignment and show your child your support by being physically near while he is working. You can do your own work, clean the kitchen, or pay the bills. Check in occasionally and be available for questions, but try not to give the answers or do the work yourself. Check over the completed homework.
- Organize the workspace and have a routine. Try to have the same homework routine each day. Create a special homework spot. It can be at the kitchen table or a spot in the living room. Few children work well independently in their bedrooms unless you accompany them, especially in the elementary and middle school years. Remember to turn off the tv and remove other distractions.
- Have supplies on hand. Paper, pencils, sharpeners, erasers. An electric pencil sharpener is a good investment. Having each child have their own special supplies is a motivator. - Be flexible when necessary. Although your routine should remain the same, you may have to adjust the homework time on certain days depending on other activities. Allow for a break every 20 minutes if necessary and make sure your child is fed. Hungry children work slower and have more difficulty staying focused.
- Help organize assignments. Have him complete the easier assignments first so he avoids frustration and builds on success.
- Balance guidance and learning through consequences. Children are different and some will embrace parental attempts at organization while others are much more likely to procrastinate or become distracted. Your job is to help them learn how to become responsible students. Sometimes that means letting them face the consequences of putting homework off until the last minute and them working with them to avoid future problems.
- Help find the answers. If you don't know everything, be honest. Then you and your child can find it together. There are lots of helpful web sites. One is BJ Pinchbeck's Homework Helper, compiled by a middle school student for middle school students. - Be firm with your expectatons, encourage your child, and recognize the effort. Be consistent and notice your children's accomplishments.
- Work with the teacher. If your child seems frustrated or constantly resists completing homework assignments, speak with your child's teacher. Don't wait for teacher conferences or report cards if you have concerns about your childn's academic performance. You are your child's best advocate. Take an active role in his education. By tackling issues as they arise, your child will learn to manage assignments successfully and develop good study skills. The teacher and the school will want to give you ideas an suggestions to help you along the way.
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