Homework is a part of your child’s education, but no one really explains how to handle homework. Children are expected to automatically know how to manage their time and assignments, which is a very unrealistic expectation. At The Itsnowsallthetime, we understand the homework problems facing your child and can guide you to homework helpers and homework tips that will make learning much easier and more enjoyable.
Set Expectations
Homework helpers are everywhere. You can ask a teacher, a tutor, a sibling, or a friend to provide homework help, but the best place for your child to get the help he or she needs is from you. Examine the course requirements your student is presented with and then sit down with them and discuss the curriculum. You cannot expect your student to get all A’s if you don’t understand the educational course they’re following, likewise you can’t be proud of all A’s if your exceptional student is taking classes that are far too easy.
Once you have an understanding of the classroom expectations it’s time to set your own expectations. Let your child know what you think they’re capable of and what you’d like to see them achieve. Help them in any way possible so they can succeed or even exceed your expectations.
Set a Schedule
You can provide homework help to your child by going over their assignments and deadlines and then setting your own expectations. By doing this you are giving your child a timeframe for homework completion and you’re becoming involved in the process so you know what they should be doing. Once they’ve met your expectations, you can go through the assignments together and make sure that they’re in the best shape possible before they’re turned in to the teacher. Following these homework tips will help you and your student stay on the same page, better understand each other, and you just might learn something from the experience.
Homework Help and Tips
If you’re looking to implement some homework tips immediately, the following guidelines give you a good firm framework from which to start good learning behaviors that can last a lifetime.
- Turn off the Television – Not only do you eliminate the distraction, but you reinforce the notion that homework is important.
- Create a Study Time, for Everyone – If your child is the only one studying he or she can feel alienated. Make homework time a family adventure and join in by reading, or paying bills, or other quiet work activities.
- Schedule, Schedule, Schedule – As with everything for children, a set schedule reinforces habits, makes large tasks manageable and encourages participation. Don’t stop at scheduling two hours a night for homework, but break those hours down into subjects, making overwhelming tasks less intimidating.
- Homework Helper – Take the lead in your child’s education. Review homework assignments and work on areas that need a little extra finishing. Your child will learn better in a one on one situation with you and they will do better in school.
- Don’t be Overcritical – Don’t expect your child to turn in an assignment that is as good as one you could do. That’s unrealistic and the harsh critiques can damage their confidence. Instead, focus on one area at a time.