Teachers at every grade level are now assigning more homework than they used to. In some communities, even children in kindergarten or first grade may be expected to do an hour or so of homework a night. High school students may have three or four hours of homework a night, and more work on the weekends.
Homework is an important part of every child’s education. It teaches responsibility as well as how to follow directions, manage time, begin and complete a task, and practice what’s been learned in class. It teaches children how to work independently and be resourceful. Developing responsible homework habits comes gradually for most children. How much help you give your child with homework will depend on his or her age and the homework task. A third-grader, for example, usually needs help planning a school project. You may need to walk him through each step and monitor the work. Some children work independently and need very little help from parents with homework. But most children need some support. They need help learning how to organize their work, getting started or completing their work, and knowing what to do when they reach a roadblock. All children need encouragement, too. Experts agree that parental involvement is key when it comes to homework. Here are some tips and suggestions on how to help your child with homework:
• Make it clear that homework is a priority and that you are serious about its importance. You might say to your child, “I need to see that you are working on that science report in advance, not just the day before it’s due.” “I need to look at your work and see that it’s done carefully.” Repeat these messages frequently with each child in your family.
• Tell your child, “Ask for help if you get stuck or don’t understand the homework.” Say, “It’s your job to ask for help. If I can’t help you, I’ll find someone who can—whether it’s the teacher, a friend, or a neighbor.” Remind your child that it’s OK to make mistakes. That’s the way we learn.
• If your child is in elementary school or middle school, meet with the teacher at the beginning of the school year and ask about homework. How much time should your child be spending on homework? Are there regularly scheduled tests? It’s helpful to know, for instance, that the math teacher gives a quiz every Friday. This way you can help your child prepare.
• Find out the best way to get in touch with the teacher if you have a question about homework. Can you call? Drop by at a certain time? Many schools now have a homework hot line or Web site where homework assignments are posted or listed daily. Ask the teacher if this is available at your school.
• Ask the teacher how your child can get help with homework. Many teachers are willing to give extra help and support before or after class and can also recommend where to get tutoring if your child needs it.
Written by: John M.
Child Learning Game
