Begin a Household Routine for Homework
Defend Against Homework Problems by Establishing a Homework Program
Jul 30, 2009
Younger children facing homework for the first time and older children who are seasoned homework veterans will all benefit from having a strong, established homework program in the home.
The following tips can help families to establish a successful homework program:
A Time for Homework
The foundation of a homework program is time. There should be a clearly established time in the home for homework. Some families like to get homework done as soon as they come home from school. Others find that the after dinner time slot works best. Whatever time of day is chosen, the important thing is to stick firmly to it. And on those occasions that no homework is assigned, children can use the spare time for personal reading or for extra practice in a particular subject area.
A Place for Homework
Homework problems often arise when children are allowed to do their homework wherever they please. There should be an assigned spot in which children complete their work. This will vary by age. Younger children work best when within earshot of a parent who stands by ready to help as needed.
Older children often prefer to work more independently. Parents should be sure that children have a comfortable and uncluttered workspace that is free from various distractions. A desk and sturdy chair or perhaps the dining room table is preferable to something too relaxing such as the living room couch.
Avoiding Homework Surprises with a Homework Chart
Many parents are familiar with Monday morning surprises. Somehow throughout the course of the weekend, the fact that there is both a book report and a science fair project due goes unannounced. Surprises like these can be avoided with a homework chart. An inexpensive pocket sized planner can be used as a homework chart. Children can be taught to record all assignments in the planner so that there is a clear record of what assignments are due. Parents can review the homework chart on a regular basis to stay informed.
Providing Homework Fuel
Children can't perform at their best if they are hungry. Make sure that the household routine for homework includes the availability of a few brain foods. Protein rich smoothies, whole grain crackers and cheese, or fruit slices dipped in yogurt are all excellent choices. These nutritious snacks will help children stay focused.
Monitoring the Homework
Although it may be tempting to use the quiet of homework time to accomplish some of the many items on the to-do list, parents should resist the urge to stray far from the homework scene. Rather, they should remain available for questions and homework guidance as needed. If it seems as though children are resistant to asking for help, parents can offer help in the form of quizzing for a test, proofreading a paper, or discussing a reading assignment.
Once a household routine for homework is in place, it will work best when it is strictly followed. By sticking to the structure and allowing few exceptions, parents can help children to develop disciplined study habits that will carry on through college and beyond.
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