Winning the Homework Battle Parent Workshop Presented by Nicole Rini, PC

Making Homework Manageable Successful students have parent support at home What is homework time like at your house?

Why is homework important? It is the connection between school and the family. It helps in developing study habits. Reinforces the following skills: Self-discipline Time management Organization Responsibility

Getting into the homework habit Parent goals: Help children get into habit of doing homework/reviewing each night Giving child opportunity to get work done by providing all materials/space/parent guidance Student goal: Complete assignments in a timely manner that shows effort and quality.

What can parents do to help? Set up a homework area (should be consistent place and in a central location so parent can monitor) Provide supplies needed (paper, pens, computer, etc) Minimize distractions (phone, TV, have younger siblings play in another space)

The Set-Up After creating your space for your child: Try to be consistent with time (and pattern of work) Some children need to being homework as soon as they get home, others may have activities after school math first, independent reading last Move child along through assignments Encourage independence but give assistance

Getting into the Homework Habit Communicate with school: Check your child’s folders, backpack for important information Ask your child if there are any tests, quizzes, projects coming up Check school website for calendar, teacher pages for homework sheets and monthly newsletters Email teacher and review homework policy

Making the Home/School Connection Ask your child what they learned in each class that day Review each assignment and be sure your child understands what to do Give your child space and time to complete assignments while remaining close by if they need help If there is an issue with not understanding an assignment: Help move student along by asking questions Look at the notes, call a friend in class

Importance of Reading as Homework Students need to read at least 20-30 minutes a day, outside of homework time. Let them choose age appropriate material (book, graphic novel, newspaper, magazine, etc) With younger children, break up the time into 10 or 15 minute blocks, take turns reading to each other, let child read to sibling/someone else

Motivation and Attitude Parents must pass along POSITIVE messages about the importance of education! If your children see you involved in their learning, they will get the message that education is important to your FAMILY WAYS TO LEAD BY EXAMPLE: Attend P/T conferences, school events, PTA meetings, class trips VOLUNTEER, VOLUNTEER, VOLUNTEER!

Motivation and Attitude Chose a place to display your child’s work Acknowledge good effort, small successes Show interest in what they are learning in school NEVER say negative things about school or teacher in front of your children

Lead by Example Let children see YOU reading Sign up for parent workshops, classes, family nights, etc. Establish rules and schedule for homework that works for YOUR FAMILY Take time to KNOW YOUR CHILD as a student and enjoy your time together!

Parent Ideas/ Discussion What is a good time for elementary students/middle school students to start homework? Snack time/nap time interference After school activities/sports team commitments Dial-a teacher (free homework help sponsored by the UFT) is available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4-7pm