With most schools back in session by now, homework assignments are becoming a regular part of the evening for students. Now is a great time to establish some good routines around homework. The American Academy of Pediatrics has great tips to help children ages 6-12 develop healthy homework habits.
Regular time
The time may vary at different households, but it’s helpful for the child and family if it’s the same general time every day. Some may do well with sitting down to homework right after school, while others might do better with an active play break first. Most children respond better to doing homework within a certain order of an after school routine, like ‘snack, homework, then play’ versus a specific time of day. Allow your child to have some say in choosing the regular time for homework in order to eliminate some of the common parent-child struggles revolving around homework.
Regular location
Whether it’s at a desk or the kitchen table, children should have a regular location to do their homework. The space should have a well-lit, adequate writing surface and be quiet and free from distraction of TV and other children. Make sure supplies are available (crayons, pencils, etc.)
How much to help
Children will vary in the amount of assistance needed during homework. Your child may prefer to have you nearby to help occasionally. If your child requires a LOT of help, you may want to be in touch with the teacher to see if some additional instruction or guidance in the classroom would help. Parents are there to assist, but not to do their child’s homework for them. One area that parents can be really instrumental is to help a child in organizing and mapping out large assignments, breaking them down into smaller steps. The American Academy of Pediatrics has some specific homework tips on reading, writing, math and studying for tests.
Be a good example
Spend time reading to show your child that you also enjoy learning and reading for fun.
Make time for fun
We can’t be all work and no play. Play is an important part of a child’s day and parents can help their children find play and activities that best suit them.
Homework is used to help students learn material and reinforce skills, as well as to learn self-discipline, organization and study skills. It’s an important way that youth learn responsibility. Starting the school year with some good homework routines will pay great dividends in your child becoming more responsible and autonomous in completing homework.
