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Parenting and Behavioural Issues
: Homework Stress-How to Deal With It
The term homework often provokes stress and anxiety both in children
and their parents. The main point of homework is that
is the child's responsibility and not that of the parents.
Basically children will get homework form kindergarten on. They
have to get the homework done and it becomes a fact of life that
starts early on. The parent's role is to know the homework requirements
and make sure they are done on time. It is best to get to know
the pattern of homework assignments. Actually, parents have to
find the right balance between not doing the homework for their
children, and helping only when needed. This is easier said than
done. The more a parent is familiar with the child's and teacher's
homework patterns, the easier the parent can adapt an approach.
Again the main point, is that the homework is the child's responsibility.
Homework wars, when they occur are quite disruptive of course
and should be avoided. By forming good habits from the beginning,
homework can be done routinely and smoothly. Also, as children
are diffrent, try to find out what works best for your child's
speicific needs and situation. What works for another child may
not work for yours. Here are some tips and suggestions to help
develop and maintain good homework habits:
Schedule homework in as any other activity
Maintain common interests or activities (cultural or athletic)
outside of school
Set up a proper study area. This may be the kitchen table or another
quiet area.
Establish a daily homework time and reinforce it. Parents at work
should call to make sure that the homework is done. By doing so
it shows children their parents actually care even though they
are at work
Children should do homework independently, but seek help when
needed
In the early grades, parents need to know what the child has for
homework, so that they can explain to their child what the homework
task requires
If parents do not understand the homework assignments, having
the child call a classmate to clarify may help. This promotes
networking which is a necessary life skill anyway!
Consistently praise your child's effort
Use reasonable incentives if necessary especially in children
who have difficulties. For example, a child can go out play when
homework is completed
Parents should be firm if a child refuses to complete their homework,
making it clear that they are capable of doing their homework
and that their teacher believes they are able too
Reviewing homework progress is also a good idea. For example parents
can say: "start your homework and show me what you have done in
15 minutes"
If problems persists despite best efforts, parents should contact
the school teacher. Homework conflicts can often be settled by
the teacher. By understanding the homework battle situation, the
teacher may have some suggestions and can collaborate with parents
to help with the difficulties. Most teachers want to be part of
a team approach.
Other Parenting and Behavioural Issues
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The information provided in this site is
designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to
replace the advice and care of your child's physician, nor is
it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If
you suspect that your child has a medical condition, always
consult a physician.
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