Five tips to supercharge
the homework routine.
What You Need To Know
The value of homework can't
be stated enough. It anchors your kids in work habits, organization, and a
sense of responsibility. If you feel like you're in for a struggle every
time the subject comes up, here's how to help.
1.
Create a
distraction-free zone. A little soft music is fine, but cartoons blaring
are a bit much.
2.
Encourage children
to give themselves a high-five for a job well done.
3.
Model what you
want to see. If your kids see you sitting down to read, they'll be more
likely to pick up a book.
4.
Set achievable
goals and record them in a book.
5.
With the help
of your child, come up with a menu of daily and weekly rewards for completing
goals, from playing a game together to stopping by the bookstore.
How You Can Help
Make sure you're
contributing to the quiet time needed for homework! Don't chat on the
phone within earshot or turn up the evening news if your child is doing their work.
Help your child make a daily schedule of activities, budgeting time for
homework, as well as other activities like soccer games and piano
practice. Be sure to allow for downtime! Kids who have no free,
unstructured time can start to resent their obligations.
