Did You Know #8: Homework Tips

Helping with homework is a necessary (if sometimes not fun) part of being a mom.  Here are some tips to make yours, and your child's, homework life easier.

1. Turn off the TV.  Make it a house rule that the TV is not allowed to be on while homework is being done.  Music is ok (no videos) - some kids really do excel at schoolwork with music in the background.

2. Have specific study and homework areas.  Whether it's their bedroom, the kitchen, or dining room, make the space as distraction-free as possible.

3. Assignment Notebook.  Encourage using a section of a notebook, or a special one, to write down assignments so there is no confusion over due dates.

4. Set a schedule including a begin time and end time.  Most kids need some time to unwind before they start doing homework, but if they do it too close to bedtime they may be too tired to foucs.

5. What Do I Need Help With.  Encourage splitting assignments into two categories - "What can I do myself" and "What do I need help with".  Only help with the homework your child can't do alone.

/// The CafeMom Team