How To Make Your Child Do Homework: Vital Advice
Homework is one of the most important aspects of a child’s learning because it reinforces what has been taught at school. It also provides parents the opportunity to be involved in their child’s education. However, few children are willing to start homework on their own and need help and encouragement to get it done. Here are a few tips to help you along the way:
- Set the stage
- Encourage and motivate
- Schedule a time
- Assist, do not take over
- Prepare beforehand
- Take a break
- Remain in touch with teacher
Provide your child with a quiet and well-lit room where there are no distractions. Turn off the TV and keep noisy younger siblings well away. Make sure the homework area is well-stocked with things needed, that is, books, pencils and paper.
Present your child’s homework and education as important. If your child is doing well at school, make sure he knows it. Reward your child for assignments completed on time or good exam results.
Doing homework at a regular time of day will provide structure to a child’s day and make it a good habit. Make sure you schedule a time when your child is not too tired and you are available to help.
However tempting it may be, never provide your child with the answer or do the homework for him. The aim is for the child to learn, not to finish the work quickly. This way, the child will know that he alone is responsible for his assignments which will help with his self-reliance in the long run.
Spend a few minutes beforehand reading up on the topic your child will be working on so that if he needs help, you can provide it on the spot.
If your child is showing signs of frustration, it could be that the length of the assignment is bothering him or that he does not understand the topic. Let him take a ten minute break, refresh, play a game or drink a glass of water. You will see an instant improvement in your child’s demeanour after he is refreshed and homework will become easier.
Being in regular touch with your child’s teacher will help you understand the various learning areas the teacher is working on. If your child is having problems at school, having a united front with his teacher will pay dividends. The teacher will also benefit from your input about how your child is handling homework.