Guidelines for Homework

Homework can often be a cause of tension within a family. Here are a few guidelines that might help.

1. Set a regular time (a beginning and ending time)
During this time activities such as reviewing trouble areas in subjects, practicing spelling lists or times tables, getting assignments done, writing in a journal, and reading should be done. The designated time does not need to be the same time every night (although this is preferable). Outside activities such as piano lessons or baseball games are valuable in a child's life. However, if these activities seem to constantly interfere with study time, perhaps your child needs to drop out of one of the activities so the homework can get done.

2. Have a designated study place.
Make sure the area has good lighting and is fairly quiet. Suitable areas include a desk in the child's bedroom or the kitchen table.

3. Provide supplies and resources your child may need.
Items such ad pencils, pencil sharpener, erasers, pens, paper, etc. should be easily accessible.

4. Remove distractions.
Turn off a nearby television. Turn off computer games and remove video games. Do not accept social calls that would interfere with studying. Sometimes worry is a distraction. Check to make sure your child clearly understands the assignment. Ask, "Tell me in your own words what you are supposed to do."

5. Help your child get organized.
Show your child how to make a list of things that need to be accomplished and then check them off as they are done. Determine priorities, estimate the time it might take to do a certain task, arrange work in a homework folder, have an assignment sheet or notebook, and make sure to write out when a certain assignment is due.

6. Help your child learn to concentrate.
Limit the length of time spent on a "boring" task. Break it into several shorter segments of time. Describe ways you concentrate such as talking to yourself to direct your attention, visualizing what your are studying in your mind or on paper by means of an outline or a map, and help your child realize s/he has to consciously plan to concentrate.

7. Allow ample time in the mornings.
This time is not for homework or studying but to allow time to preview the day and check to make sure everything is in your child's backpack to be taken to school.