Top Five Homework Help Tips

Studies indicate that parental involvement in homework has a more powerful influence on achievement than both socioeconomic background and parents’ own educational level. In other words, a parent can change the odds of their kid’s success at school by helping them with their homework. Parents can employ the strategies listed below to make their kids more efficient at doing their assignments.

1. Create a homework-friendly area.
Reserve a well-lit space in the house complete with ergonomic desk and chair for your kid’s homework station. Keep school supplies ready and use a calendar to mark due dates and important events. Calendars are great for staying organized and help in keeping all tasks up to date. You can even record your kid’s progress in the notes section of the calendar for both study and sports related achievement. Keep distractions like electronic devices such as TV, computer, tablet and phone away from this space. Most importantly, create a daily homework routine when you and your kid can revisit the tasks marked on the calendar. This will promote a sense of order in your kid’s life and teach them the invaluable skill that is time management.

2. Help with homework, don’t do it.
If you get frustrated with your child’s pace at doing their assignment, you may get tempted to do the work yourself. That’s when you have to remind yourself that the homework is just a means and not the end. The purpose of homework is for your kid to learn the material at hand in addition to gaining life skills such as developing responsibility, being organized and sustaining attention. Perhaps you’re not doing the task yourself but giving too much instruction and not giving enough space to your kid. Remember, there is a fine line between supervision and micromanagement. Take a step back and let your kid know you’re there to answer any questions. Your job is to be a guide and support, not teach.

3. Make learning fun.
Use words of praise to instil a sense of self-confidence in your child each time they do their homework. Follow each homework session with your kid’s favorite activity and throw some delicious snacks in the mix. Your kid will associate the task of doing their assignments with feelings of joy and satiation. These strategies of positive reinforcement will play a crucial role in developing a liking for doing homework in your kids.

4. Connect with your kid’s teacher.
Meeting with your kid’s teacher can bridge the gap between what is expected of your child and what their understanding of their assignments are. This is especially important if your kid is struggling with the amount or content of the homework. Arrange periodic meetings with the teacher and listen to their observations in with regards to your kid’s progress.

5. Get your spouse involved.
Oftentimes, couples think that household chores should be divided between them when, in fact, that may not be the most effective way to get things done. Helping your kid with homework is one such task that should be done by both parents. Both you and partner must have a good understanding of your kid’s strength and opportunities and frequently speak to each other about how you can support your kid succeed at school. This way, if one of you is tied up at work, you can be sure that your partner is going to be there for your kid.