Mrs. Schreiber
Though kids and parents may try to avoid it, Homework has an important role. It's a way to practice, review, and expand what kids have learned in class. It also gives the teacher feedback on whether students understood the lesson.
HERE ARE A FEW WAYS TO HELP YOUR CHILD GET THE MOST OUT OF HOMEWORK:
1. Provide a helping hand. Do several problems together. Then watch your child do a few on his or her own. Check the work and show how to correct mistakes. If your child is becoming frustrated, take a short break. Have a calendar at home to mark any long-term assignments such as reports or science projects.
2. Establish a routine. Whether it's immediately after school or after dinner, determine a regular time and place for homework each night. Set up a comfortable study area with good lighting where your child can spread out their work. It's great if there is a desk, but a kitchen table can work just as well. The TV should stay off, but pay attention to how your child works best. Some kids need complete silence while others can work lying on the floor with music on in the background.
3. Maintain a positive attitude. Your child may have subjects you never had or didn't like when you were in school. Avoid passing on your negative experiences. If you're unable to help with certain subjects, seek assistance from the library, homework hotlines or peer tutors. Send a brief note or e-mail to the teacher if your child needs additional guidance on the subject. If he continues to struggle, arrange a conference so you and the teacher can work out a plan to assist your child.
4. Use homework planners. Every student writes their homework down at the end of the school day in their homework planner. Be sure that they are using it effectively. It should be used to gather materials before they leave school and it should be opened at home before beginning assignments. Check off all items that are completed. Then be sure that all papers and materials are placed into their bookbag to return to school the next day.
5. Use folders. Return finished homework to the "home folder" every time. This establishes a routine so that a child does not have to search for a missing paper.
6. Have plenty of materials at home. Make sure there is a supply of looseleaf paper, erasable pens and pencils. Have a box or drawer of art supplies such as crayons, scissors, rulers, and glue.