Homework is an important part of learning. Almost always, homework is for review and practice of classwork. It is often completion of work started in class or a way to encourae independent, creative projects.
Set a time for your child to do homework every day. Help your child understand how important it is to schedule homework as part of a daily routine that will help them learn more and better. If homework is not completed and turned in on time, your child's grades will suffer.
Research shows that students who consistently do homework get better grades and retain what they learn better than those who don't. This is true whether your child is a high or low achiever in a class.
Homework teaches responsibility. It's important for children to learn that it is up to them to get home with their own assignments. Each of us wants our children to grow to be motivated, successful and independent adults. Developing responsibility for materials and assignments, even as elementary-age students, will impact their life later on.
Provide a proper study area. That can be anywhere in your home – the kitchen table or a small desk – as long as it is quiet and allows for concentration. Setting up this special place also lets your child know that you think homework is a priority.
Homework must be done on time. Don't make excuses for your child not completing his assignments on time. Encourage your child to do his best. Help as needed, but do not do the work for your child.
Grades K-3 materials to have on hand:
- paper, scrap and the kind used at school
- pencils
- crayons
- markers
- pencil sharpener
- scissors
- erasers
- glue and/or paste
- construction paper
- dictionary appropriate for the needs of your child
- assignment pad for second and third graders
Be sure to let your child go with you to get the needed supplies for his study area. Also let your child be in on the decision concerning where his study area will be.
Make sure your child's study area is free from distractions, but close enough to you so you can be available to help.
Grades 4-8 materials to have on hand:
- paper, scrap and the kind used at school
- pencils
- pens
- markers
- crayons, colored pencils
- pencil sharpener
- erasers
- glue and/or paste
- tape
- hole punch, stapler
- dictionary, atlas, thesaurus, almanac
- paper clips, rubber bands
- white out, pocket folders, index cards
- assignment pad
Lead your child in determining suitable study times for completing homework assignments. Help your child pace himself while doing assignments. Encourage him/her not to speed through and to take time to proofread.
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