Keep a Posistive Attitude

As a parent or carer it is important to be involved in your child’s education. The best way to do that is to help children with their homework. In fact, research has proven that children whose parents take an active interest in their homework do better in school. Showing a positive attitude with regard to homework can show a child that you care about their work and that it is important to you.

Helpful Advice for Parents

Remember that you are your child’s first and best teacher. You know your child better than anyone and you understand his or her educational needs. Get involved in their education as much as possible. Get to know their teacher, attend parent-teacher meetings, and be aware of the school’s homework policy.

Maintain a close relationship with your child. They will have to make many important decisions throughout school and this will be made easier for them if they can talk to you about their worries or concerns and ask for your advice.

Be a good listener. Young children love to talk about their school day. Older children will not want to talk as much, but let them know you are ready to listen when they do. Take an active interest in what they are doing in school.

Offer praise and support. Give your child plenty of genuine praise when they achieve something and recognise their efforts. Let them know that you are proud of them. If they are having any difficulties in school offer your help.

Practical Homework Help

Make sure your child has a suitable area to do their homework. It should be well lit and have all their necessary supplies within reach. Homework should also be done at a regular time. You will know when your children work best, so try to schedule homework for the same time every day. Also, keep distractions to a minimum. Avoid having television or loud music in the vicinity.

Make sure your child does his or her own homework. Some parents want to help their children get homework finished as quickly as possible by writing it out for them and letting them copy it. Children only learn when they are thinking for themselves. By all means make suggestions and give directions but a child should complete their homework on their own as much as possible.

Set a good example for your child. If your child sees you reading a book or writing a letter they will be more likely to do so the same.

If your child has problems with homework continually talk with his or her teacher. There may be a specific difficulty that they are having such as not being able to see the writing clearly or maybe a learning difficulty that requires evaluation.

Even if you did not have the best experience in school yourself you can help your child to be successful and happy in school. An honest and positive relationship with your child will create success and your support is invaluable to them.