Children who have trouble with homework usually benefit from a
more structured program and a positive parent attitude. One key
to success of a student's homework program will be the attitude
of the parent. Anger or yelling will only worsen the situation.
Staying calm and setting up some specific ways to deal with homework
can really make a difference.
Provide a structured program of study for children who have trouble
with homework. A typical program includes the following:
* Set a specific study time. A child with good study habits often
sets this time him or herself. The right time will vary with each
family and it may vary with weekday. Some families find that right
after school works best while others find that after supper and
before television is the best plan.
* Provide a study area with no distractions. A desk is preferable,
but it is most important to eliminate distractions such as television,
radio or telephone. The kitchen table may work fine as long as
there are no distractions.
* Ask your child or teen to bring home a list of homework each
day. Parents can check over the assignments list to better understand
what is expected each day.
* Check over homework when it is finished. Looking over homework
gives parents an opportunity to understand what is expected and
to understand how well their children does assignments.
* Work with the child to set the rules, rewards and consequences.
Rules should be those that will help the child reach a goal, not
rules for the sake of rules. Consequences should be set in the
spirit of love and nurturing, not in the spirit of punishment.
The object is to improve the child's grades, not to lower the
child's self esteem. When setting rewards and consequences, consider
privileges that can be given or taken away such as watching television,
playing video games, talking on the phone and going out with friends.
A reward also might be extra television or phone time, having
a friend over or getting to choose a video for the family to rent.
Remember that it is natural for some children and teens to dislike
doing homework. It helps to let him or her know that doing homework
is an important responsibility. If you are frustrated or upset,
leave the room to cool down. Above all, keep out of arguments.
11/14/97
Virginia Molgaard, Extension Family Life
Treva Blumenshine, Extension Communication Systems, (515) 294-1338