Homework Hints

Now, the chore is to help your child get the most out of it. These homework tips can instill good habits into your child early in their school-age years.

Provide a Special, Quiet, and Well-Lit Place for Your Child to Do Homework.
You have already done most of that, or will do that, by picking out a child desk. Add a lamp to the desk that is safe and easy for your child to operate. It should be away from distractions like a television, stereo, or in the middle of people coming and going.

All materials for homework completion should be handy.
The desk should have pencils, pens, sharpeners, markers, or crayons close by. Additionally, there should be plenty of paper and other needed items like a ruler or calculator. Art desks can hold some things, and meet the needs of young children. Child computer desks provide excellent space for everything needed by older kids and teens.

Time Management Is Important.
Work with your child to help get at homework and balance it with play time, meal time, and bed time. Establishing a regular time during the day for homework is helpful to both you and your child. Kids actually crave routine and a regular homework time every day can keep them up to date or even ahead.

Stay Positive About Homework.
Stress to your child that success comes from a positive attitude. Be positive about your child and their progress. Homework should also never be used as a punishment.

Do YOUR Homework When Your Child Does Homework.
As you youngster sits at their child desk for homework, you should be nearby doing your homework. Doing the same type of activity with your child can be quite supportive, and sets a positive example. They will see that their assignments relate to life as an adult.

Watch for Signs of Frustration
Avoidance of a subject or assignment or being easily distracted can be a sign of difficulty and frustration. Speak to your child and see if they need help. If needed, let them take short break from studies to refresh themselves. Encourage your child to ask questions, too.

Provide Guidance - NOT Answers.
When they need help and ask questions, do not GIVE the answer, but show they way to figuring out. If your approach is not working, take a different one. This can be hard and frustrating on a parent, but all children get confused and may need extra thought in regard to solving a problem or overcoming difficulty.

Never Compare One Child with Another.
If your child is having trouble in a subject where a sibling or friend excels, NEVER compare them to each other. This hurts self-esteem and can create rivalry, bad feelings, and worsen performance. Every child is different, and will be strong in different things. They need to be dealt with on their own in terms of ability, not under the microscope of a superior student.

Reward Progress.
When you child makes progress in any are of school, it should be noticed by you. Recognition and positive reinforcement does wonders for a child as they learn- especially by a parent. For extra-special accomplishments or large strides in progress, reward your child with an outing, treat, or gift.