Homework Habits

BY PROFESSOR MATT SANDERS

OPINION: Having homework to do is an accepted part of life for all kids going to school. However, it doesn't have to become an ongoing family battle. The key is for parents and children to be prepared and work out ways to make it happen without too much stress.

Your child should have a set, regular time for doing homework that fits in around your schedule and your child's other commitments such as sport or music lessons.

Picking the right time to set is an important part of putting a successful strategy in place for keep up with homework. The time to do homework is after kids have had a chance to relax when they get home from school and before they are allowed to play or watch television.

Relaxing immediately after school is as just as important for kids as it is for anyone who needs to wind down after coming home from work. Give your child an afternoon snack and use that time to find out what their homework tasks are, whether they need any special materials for projects, and when it needs to be ready.

While children don't have to have absolute quiet when working, they should have a homework area that has clear table space, is well lit, and is free from obvious distractions (like the television).

If your child wants your opinion on how good their homework is don't feel that you have to make sure the work is perfect before they hand it in. They may feel discouraged if you point out all the spelling and punctuation mistakes. Instead, say something positive about the work and, if you must make corrections, just choose one or two mistakes.

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