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Today's families are busier than ever. Developing good study habits early on will help students shine in school and balance their daily activities. Many parents feel ill equipped and unprepared when it comes to helping their kids with homework. Many kids just aren’t into doing homework. Here are some quick tips to help change your child’s attitude towards homework and make it a less stressful experience.
#1 - Establish a homework routine. Like dinnertime, bedtime, and reading time, homework needs to find its place in your daily schedule. Set a specific time when kids have to get their homework done, and stick to it! Allow kids to do other activities they enjoy once homework is completed.
#2 - Create a homework environment. Find a space conducive for learning, away from distractions such as the television, phone, or electronics. Make sure the area is quiet, well lit, clutter-free and that your child has all the tools necessary to work.
#3 - Teach your child to be organized. Be sure that your child keeps an agenda and check it daily. Use it to record assignments, tests, and to communicate with the teacher. Have your child check off work as it is completed. Introduce a planning calendar to record long-term assignments.
#4 - Show an interest in your child's homework assignments. Ask your child about the subjects and the work to be done. Offer tools and support, but never do the work for them. Identify trouble areas and work with them to find solutions to deal with any challenges. Foster independence in your children. Communicate any issues back to the teacher.
#5 - Read every night! Reading is the base of your child’s educational success. Read at least 15 to 20 minutes per day in order to maintain reading skills. Have your child maintain a book log. To check comprehension, have them submit a mini book report each time they complete a book, or if your child is younger, have them tell you the story.
#6 - Give them tools! Make sure the materials your child needs, such as paper, pencils, and a dictionary, are available. Ask your child if special materials will be needed for projects and get them in advance.
Remember to keep a positive attitude about homework. Relax, have fun and get the homework done. Let your child take a short break if he or she is having trouble keeping their mind on an assignment. The attitude you express about homework will be the attitude your child acquires.
