9 homework tips for parents!

Battling with your child to do his/her homework?  Here are some tips that might help:

1.  Set up a homework friendly area, with a comfortable chair, table, stationery and even a few inspirational quotes on the wall.

2.  Make homework a priority:  schedule a regular homework/study time, e.g. between 4pm and 5pm.  Keep to the same time every day.  Avoid homework time before bedtime.

3.  Keep distractions to a minimum: This means no T.V., loud music or phone-calls.

4.  If your child feels the work is too much, encourage them to break it up into smaller, manageable parts.  Take breaks in between.

5.  Make sure kids do their own work:  They won't learn if they don't think for themselves and make their own mistakes.  Parents can make suggestions and help with directions, but it's the kid's job to do the learning.

6.  Set a good example:  Do you kids see you read a book or diligently balancing your budget?

7.  Praise their work and efforts:  Display a good test or art project on the refrigerator or share with relatives.  Show them you are proud!

8.  Use leverage and incentives if you need to: Does your child love television?  Computer games? Unplug it until homework is done.  You can even exchange homework time for something they love:  15 minutes of effective homework time = 15 minutes with their beloved "whatnot" :-) 

9.  Set a timer:  Don't leave your child to work for too long at a time.  Set a timer for 20 minutes and then let your child take a quick break, e.g. drink a glass of water, run around the house or even scream out loud:  "I hate homework!".