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1. Establish a Consistent Routine
The first step in creating a positive homework pathway for your child is by primarily creating a routine. This may mean that parents may have to compromise with their child on the working conditions for homework time. As The Seattle Times further explicates, “That means helping students designate a set time and place where they can comfortably — and routinely — hit the books without being disturbed. Some families keep the TV off on weeknights and tape favorite shows for weekend watching. Following such a rule consistently, Kurcinka says, may avoid parent-child power struggles.” Adding to this, if a child is comfortable independently working in his or her bedroom, then parents may need to allow this freedom and choice of the child; however, if a child’s homework is incomplete or if their grades drop, then parents should immediately step in and enforce a different homework strategy and routine.
2. Create Boundaries
As the homework routine is clearly outlined and consistently enforced, parents should simultaneously create clear boundaries for their child as well. This may entail that a teenager’s cell phone must be turned off during homework time, or a child’s television or radio must be off until assignments are complete.
3. Accountability and Responsibility
Regardless of a child’s age or school grade, a parent must immediately require their child’s personal accountability for homework and assignments. Parents should have clear rules about writing down assignments in a notebook, or remembering to bring all necessary homework materials, such as books or calculators, home each night. If a child fails to hold up their end of the bargain, then the established consequences should be enforced.
4. Get Organized
For younger children, a parent may need to create a homework calendar that both the parent and the child can clearly access and see. This may help a child learn how to plan ahead and create a schedule for long-term elementary and middle school projects. For high school kids, this may mean that a parent talks with their teen about setting progress goals for assignments each day.
5. Teach Prioritization
Children are gradually assigned more homework tasks as they progress through the school grades, and parents can intervene and teach children how to prioritize their homework assignments. If a project is due in a week, a parent can help their child to set up a time line for small tasks each day. Or, if a child is feeling overwhelmed, a parent can help their child make a list of everything that must be done, and then number each task in order to prioritize the academic responsibilities.
6. Create a “Learning Space”
For many children, a “learning space” that is specifically set aside for homework can allow them to mentally enter into a “school mode” when they are at home. This may mean that a small office is stocked with pens, paper, and necessary tools for assignments; however, on the other hand, this also may mean that a child may need to access the library each day for homework (if they are too distracted at home). Regardless of a child’s needs, a parent must create a free space for a child to complete assignments without disruptions or distractions.
7. Check Your Child’s Progress
While public schools send out report cards and progress reports, many schools now post grades and homework assignments online. Parents need to create a relationship and speak regularly with their child’s teacher and find the best ways to check in on the student’s progress throughout the semester and school year.
8. Allow Rewards When Earned
If a child successfully meets all of the outlined homework rules and expectations, parents can allow certain appropriate freedoms if their child seems to be excelling in their tasks and schoolwork. For example, if a child asks to change their homework time or change their “learning space,” parents should experiment with new freedoms as the child gradually excels with their own academic responsibility. As long as the child seems to be successfully comprehending and excelling in academic pursuits and assignments, parents can consider new privileges and rewards for their child’s achievements.
9. Be a Study Partner
Many times, especially when a child feels overwhelmed with a task or assignment, parents can offer support by simply helping their child study. This involves quizzing a child, teaching a child study strategies, or also just helping a child get organized. Sometimes the simple act of giving a child attention during difficult tasks can boost a child’s morale and effort.
10. Encourage and Support
Most importantly, a parent should serve as a motivational academic cheerleader. Homework should not be a punishment or a time that’s dreaded. Approach homework with a positive attitude, and consistently reward the child with positive verbal feedback. Children do not require material treats or presents for their success; moreover, children thrive on verbal support and encouragement. For example, if a child consistently does their homework without complaining, remind them each day, “I love how you always do your assignments with such a great attitude. I admire your ability to do what’s assigned with such an adult work ethic!” When compliments are specific and meaningful, a child will feel more confident and motivated to continually follow through with his or her responsibilities and performance.
References:
“Homework,” Family Education, available athttp://school.familyeducation.com/homework/activity/34550.html; http://www.publicschoolreview.com/
