Handling homework hassles

BY JANE SISOIAN

Now that the school year is upon us, the homework battles have begun.  With kids getting upset and
parents frustrated, the happy, joyful times of summer are soon to be forgotten. Here are some simple
tips to set the stage for a successful school year.


1. Create a homework space that your child can call his/her own.  Have your child help create their special place and fill it with all the materials they would need. Keep distractions to a minimum and make sure it is well organized. (For more tips on organization, see this post from guest Guru Amy Morris).

2.   Keep a calendar in their space where they can write down the dates that projects are due.  It is important for them to learn time-management skills and this needs to be taught to them.

3.  Designate a time for "Homework Time" and be consistent with this time.  Kids thrive on routine!  Even if they don't have homework, this time should be used for reading or journal writing.  Make it a special time in the house when everyone is quiet and doing something educational.

4. Do NOT sit with them while they do their homework.  Check to see what they need to do, make sure they understand what they are doing and then leave.  Make yourself accessible if they need help. When they are finished, check their homework for accuracy.

5. For the children who take way too long in completing their work, try setting a timer. 

6.   Communicate any consistent homework battles with your child's teacher.  Sometimes a teacher can instill more of a consequence at school and the child will naturally begin taking a more positive approach to homework time.

There are many opportunities to teach your children during homework time and not just academics.  Use
this time to teach them time management, patience, persistence, self-confidence, goal-setting,
motivation, and so much more.  Parents are a child's greatest teacher.

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Jane Sisoian is a third-grade teacher at Del Prado Elementary School in Boca Raton. She has 16 years
of teaching experience, certified in early childhood, elementary and gifted education. Jane is the
owner of Positive Solutions for Children and Families and a certifited parent instructor of the Redirecting Children's Behavior course.  She also gives courses to children to help them reach their full potential.
Jane can be reached at 561-542-1700 or online at www.positivesolutionsinfo.com.