How to help your child with homework
Every night, it's a constant battle throughout many homes across the Nation. Parents want their children to do their homework, but they feel at a disadvantage. Many times they may not be familiar with what is being taught. Other times they just don't know what to do if a child refuses to work. The following 6 step method is from the award winning video: "Skills For Parents, How To Help With Your Child's Homework." If anyone is interested, we could hold a parent's night and show this short (30 minute) video and then discuss ways in which we can help our children succeed in the classroom and at home.
The key to making these 6 steps work is to always keep in mind that how you respond to homework is a direct reflection on how you value education. Your children are always learning from YOU. Research has shown time after time that the parents ARE the single most important teacher in their child's life.
Step 1:
Clearly communicate to your child that homework is to be completed.</h3>Don't assume that your child "knows" how you feel about homework and school. You must communicate this to your child. In the very first week of school, sit your child down and clearly and calmly let them know that you expect their homework to be done nightly.
After you have made the point clear. Ask them to repeat back to you what your expectations are regarding homework. That way there can be no confusion later on.
Step 2:
Set aside a definite daily space and time for homework.Sit down with your child and ask them to help decide how much time is needed daily for them to finish their homework. Making them part of the process helps them assume personal responsibility for the task and your involvement show them you are determined to help them succeed.
Make a daily homework schedule and then post it in a place it is clearly visible. Make certain you consider such points as making sure there is enough light, removing distractions such as TV and music, firmly let them know that there will be no interruptions during homework time. This should include such things as visitors and phone calls, or computer time.
When homework time comes around make certain disturbances are kept to a minimum and that your child is sitting to do the work, not laying down.
Step 3:
Monitor their behavior. Check their work when finished.YOU must be prepared to help your child follow the schedule. It may require you reminding them of the schedule for the first few nights. You may have to turn off the TV, remove the phone, shut down the music, or ask them to study in a common place. Remember, you cannot monitor behavior if they are out of your sight.
When they say they are done with the homework actually check the work. Even if you can't do the work yourself, your checking the work for completeness will allow you to be able to say that you saw it done. Ask them questions as a mini review.
If you work late, make it clear to your child that they are to leave their homework in a place where you can look over it when you get home.
Step 4:
Provide positive support.It cannot be stressed enough how important you are in the life of your child. This step is probably the most important because your child has followed through on a task and your encouragement is a small price to keep them working hard. Each night, find one thing they did exceptionally well on and recognize and praise them for their work.
Step 5:
Back up your words with actions.OK, you have set up the schedule with your child, but they just are not following through. The only way to make them realize you are serious is to start making them less comfortable. Without getting angry or raising your voice and without resorting to begging and pleading, give them a choice.
Explain that homework is a responsibility, and that everyone must follow through on their responsibilities. Let them know that THEY are making a choice not to watch TV, listen to the radio, go to the mall. Remind them that THEY are choosing to sit {at the table} until their homework is done.
This step is probably the hardest for a parent to follow because we, as parents, don't want our children to be uncomfortable. It is important for you not to get angry, but equally as important for you not to back down. Stand your ground and BE CONSISTENT.
You may have to allow your child to go to bed without doing their homework, but it is important that the very next day you have them sitting right back where they were until they do the work.
Step 6:
Communicate regularly with your child's teachers.It is important that if you honestly do not feel like your child can do the work, contact the teachers. Together you can and will work out a plan to help your child succeed.
If you are getting notes from the teacher saying the homework is not being turned in but your child is telling you they are doing it, sit your child down and explain to them calmly that their teacher has told you they are not turning in their homework. Let your child know that you will insist that the teacher is to send a note home each night there is homework and you expect the note so that you can make sure they are doing their work.
Make communication with the teachers regular and friendly.
By following these 6 steps you are helping your child insure their success at school and in life.