Home Learning Tips for Parents

Purpose of Homework Review and practice what was taught Prepare for next day’s class Explore subjects more fully than class time permits. Applying skills learned to new situations. Teach students to work independently. Encourage self-discipline and responsibility. Create understanding between families & teacher. Provide opportunities for increased communication. Learn to use resources – library, websites, reference books, etc.

Homework Tips for Parents Be positive about homework. Tell your child how important school is. The attitude you express about homework will be the attitude your child acquires. Make sure your child has a quiet, well lit place to do homework. Establish a set time each day for doing homework. Don’t let your child leave homework until just before bedtime.

Homework Tips for Parents 4. Create a homework survival kit – keep all supplies in the study spot. pencils, pens, writing paper, colored pencils, markers, crayons, ruler, pencil sharpener, erasers, glue, tape, construction paper, stapler, hole punch, scissors, paper clips, index cards, folders, dictionary, agenda. When your child asks for help, provide guidance, not answers. Giving answers means your child will not learn the material. Too much help teaches your child that when the going gets tough, someone will do the work for him or her.

Homework Tips for Parents If homework is meant to be done by your child alone, let them do so. Homework is a great way for kids to develop independent lifelong learning skills. 7. Reward progress in homework. If your child has been successful in homework completion and is working hard, celebrate that success with praise.

Homework Tips for Parents 8. Have your child take necessary breaks – homework 20 minutes, take 5 minute break. 9. Talk with the teacher if child struggles with homework – arrange for tutoring if needed. 10. Step back if you feel yourself losing your temper or patience. Don’t let your frustration make your child feel insecure for not understanding.

Stay Informed With Your Child’s Teacher Talk with teacher early in the school year before problems arise. Contact teacher as soon as you suspect a problem. Request a meeting with teacher to discuss concerns – explain what you think is going on. Keep communication open and clear.

Contact the teacher when you have concerns Child refuses to do homework Instructions are unclear Can’t help child get organized to finish assignments Can’t provide needed supplies/materials Can’t understand purpose of assignments Assignments are too hard or too easy Your child has missed school and has assignments to make-up

True success comes only when you make a commitment to be excellent.