Homework Help for Parents

Five Reasons Homework Is Important -

1. It is a bridge between home and school.
2. It consolidates the work of the classroom.
3. It allows your child to develop independent learning skills.
4. It shows you what work your child is doing in school.
5. It helps you now if your child is having problems with the work.
_________________________________________________________

A homework checklist

Make sure that your child has:-

• A quiet place to work with good lighting
• A regular time for homework
• Turn off the television
• Basic supplies, such as paper, pencils, pens, markers and ruler.
• Aids to good organization, such as, an assignment calendar, book bag, and folders.

Questions to ask your child:-

• What is your assignment today?
• Is the assignment clear? (If not suggest calling a classmate for clarification.)
• When is it due?
• Do you need any special resources? (e.g. a trip to the library or access to a computer).
• Do you need any special supplies? (e.g. graph paper or poster board)
• Have you started today's assignment?
• Which assignment have you finished?
• How long are you expecting it to take?
• Do you need to make a plan?
• Do you need any help planning the work?

Other ways to help:-

• Do not do the work for your child! The teacher needs to se whether or not your child can do the work.
• Help your child with a few problems to make sure they understand their assignments, but do not do their work.
• Look over the homework but do not correct it. You may point out mistakes but it is up to your child to take the responsibility of correcting the work.
• When you meet the teacher ask about homework policy. Teachers have different approaches and expectations.
• Check with the teacher if your child says they have no homework.
• Contact the teacher if you have any concerns about how your child is doing the homework.
• Often teachers are not aware of problems until it is too late to correct them.
• Look at the teacher comments on completed homework and discuss them with your child.
• Praise your child for the hard work they are doing whatever their grades. Avoid rewarding with money or gifts.