Here are a few general tips to help you help your child with homework.
- Make sure your child has a quiet, well-lit place to work. Make sure it is away from the television set and other distractions.
- Make sure your child has the supplies he or she needs—paper, pencils, a dictionary, and a computer.
- Establish a set time for your child to do homework each day. Plan together when extra time will be needed for big assignments such as research reports.
- Show that you value homework by doing your own homework. For example, if your child is reading a book for language arts class, you can read a book, too.
- Help by providing guidance and encouragement, not answers. Your child won't learn unless he or she actually does the work.
- Talk with your child's teacher to ensure that you understand the goals of homework assignments and any special requirements your child will need to meet.
- Help your child set priorities. Help your child determine which assignments are more challenging than others and do them first—when he or she is freshest and most alert.
- Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration. Let your child take a short break if needed.
- Celebrate success. Reward your child for working hard with an occasional special treat—a pizza or a trip to the park, for example.
