Improve Your Child’s Homework and Study Skills
When your child comes home from school, and you ask, “Do you have any homework?” invariably the answer that usually blasts forth from little lungs is “NO!” Contrary to the wishful thinking of K–12 students nationwide, teachers do assign homework and do so to reinforce the concepts learned during class.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, of those students who do the best on homework, studying, and tests, the majority come from homes where parents take an active, supportive role in their children’s academic success. You are probably reading this because you are one of those concerned and involved parents. Good for you! Now, pull up a desk and find out some of the smartest ways to help your son or daughter study better.
Contact with the Teacher
Contact with your child’s teacher is essential in order for you to stay abreast of your child’s academic progress. So make contact, whether by phone, e-mail, or in person. Introduce yourself then ask a few questions, such as:
- How much homework should I expect my child to have each night?
- How much time should my child devote to studying each evening?
- What topics and concepts will you cover this year?
- What sort of unit or group projects should I expect my child to work on at home during the year?
Also discuss the following:
- Ask the teacher to keep you apprised of your student’s performance, especially if your child experiences difficulties. You’ll want to know immediately of any problems so you can begin more intensive help (like a tutor) as soon as possible—not later when the school comes to you to discuss something like holding your child back a year.
- Express any concerns you may have—academic or otherwise—about your child. For instance, if you suspect a learning disability, or if your child has undergone a traumatic experience, like a divorce or a death in the family, tell the teacher. When a teacher learns the nuances of each child, he or she is better prepared to modify instruction and provide a positive environment for your child. A child who feels good about school will feel good about homework and studying, resulting in better grades.
- Your child’s instructor probably has e-mail and voice mail—both excellent ways to make contact quickly over issues about your child. Find out what communication mode your child’s teacher prefers and use it.
Set a Study Schedule
Once you’re armed with the answers to the questions above, you can better develop a study schedule. Set a specific time each night for your child to devote to studying and homework. Take into consideration extracurricular activities and your own work schedule then find a time when those components won’t interfere in study time. Stick to the homework schedule every school day.
A Clean, Well-Lit Place
After setting a time, find a place conducive to studying for your child. Preferably your child’s study area should be free from noise and traffic, as well as comfortable and properly lit. Organize the area and provide plenty of supplies: pens, pencils, paper, glue sticks, markers, and anything else your child may need to complete projects and tasks. Keep a dictionary nearby, too. Let your child help decorate and organize the area. By doing so, you give ownership to him or her and make the learning experience more positive.
Be Near
Stay nearby while your child works. Younger children especially want Mom or Dad next to them while doing homework. By staying close, you offer your child security and show your child you really do care about his or her success in school. Moreover, children often require help with their homework and depend upon you to give that help. Whether your child needs you to quiz him for a test or further illuminate the intricacies of long division, hang out in the same room or close by.
When your children study, don’t exhibit a double standard. Turn off the television. Don’t boot up one of your computer games. Instead, show the kids by example the importance of an education. Read a book or work on paperwork at the same time your child works. Your nonverbal message will ring loudly and clearly to the kids.
Review the Work
Once your child finishes studying, check for comprehension by quickly going over the material. Again, help your child learn by quizzing him. Make a game out of quizzing ,or involve the whole family for added fun. Beyond helping your child earn a great grade on a test, you’ll also spend quality time together.
With assignments, look over the work for accuracy and completion. If you find that a worksheet isn’t completed, redirect your child back to the homework and help her finish. Never do your children’s work for them. You’ll cheat your own kids out of an education and set them up for failure later. Instead, support them and guide them toward the right answers.
A Standing Ovation
Finally, praise your child for his or her hard work. Point out something done well on an assignment, or go out for ice cream when a test comes back with an “A.” By praising your child’s effort, you show them how much you care.
When applied consistently, these homework tips will improve any student’s performance—both on their homework and in the classroom. As your child’s school performance improves, his or her sense of competency and self-esteem increases. Good luck!
