Guest Writer: Emily Graham from Mightymoms.net.
Homework, as we all know, is an integral part of learning. Although most students groan when a teacher is about to issue homework, its importance is immeasurable. Homework teaches students to take responsibility for completing tasks, work independently, connect school learning and the real world, and reinforce concepts learned in class. It also helps teachers assess the learning of students and identify their weak points. Homework provides benefits beyond students and teachers; parents also gain from it as well. It allows parents to play an active role in their children’s education as well as evaluate the learning of their kids.
Although homework is beneficial, helping children with homework is not always easy. Some kids struggle to complete their homework, and the struggle is even more significant for parents. Parents have to strive to make their kids complete homework, regardless of the pushback they receive. Luckily, there are different ways parents can help kids get on track and get rid of the homework struggle. Below are some top homework strategies for parents, presented to you today by Emily Graham from Mightymoms.net.
Eliminate Distractions
You want your child to concentrate when doing his homework. However, children simply cannot focus amidst distractions such as loud music, TV, video games, loud siblings, and phone calls. Ensure the homework area is free from distractions. Of course, if your child wants to seek help with homework from a classmate, do not restrict them.
Be a Motivator
Encourage your kid to complete assignments and tests. Also, offer support and guidance, interpret assignment instructions, and review completed assignments. Help your child to develop problem-solving skills, and they will have the confidence and passion for learning.
Set Up a Homework-Friendly Area
You can make doing homework painless by setting up a homework-friendly area in your home. Whether it is in the study room, dining area, or bedroom, ensure the place is quiet, comfortable, and well-lit. You can let your child choose their preferred study spot based on their needs. Do not forget to keep supplies like paper, pencils, dictionaries, and glue within reach.
Reward Good Work
Almost everyone — including kids — loves to be appreciated and rewarded. Do not forget to appreciate your kid’s good work. You can also reward your kid’s work by simply posting their aced test or artwork on the refrigerator. You can also take them out to the park, allow them to play video games, buy ice cream, or treat them to lunch at a favorite restaurant. Reward your child; it lifts spirits and refines commitment to do homework.
Help Your Child Without Doing the Homework
You may be tempted to do your child’s homework to get it done with. Nevertheless, although it can be a short-term solution, doing your child’s homework does not help in the long term. Your child does not learn from the homework as expected. It is advisable to let your child do their homework and learn and make mistakes in the process. Your role is to offer direction with the homework or any suggestions needed. The less you help, the better.
Use Learning Technologies
Thanks to advancements in technology, you can use the internet to help your child with homework. There are numerous learning apps, online tutorials, and videos to help a child in the subjects he is struggling with. A tablet can be ideal for assisting your child in his studies and motivating him to learn. There are numerous tablets on the market with different functionalities and features to meet your child’s specific learning needs. The Apple iPad 10.2, for instance, offers your child many apps, long battery life, and ease of use. Also, it has the functions and features of a computer to assist with homework.
If an iPad is out of your budget, other tablets like Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition and Lenovo Tab 4 8 can be good alternatives. With Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition, your child gets access to many apps, games, books, videos, and other educational content. Lenovo Tab 4 8 is beautifully designed and powerfully built to meet multiple users’ needs, including kids. You can also transform this tab into a dedicated kid’s tablet.
In addition, a case can be a useful accessory for your new tablet. Incidents like spills, scratches, and dropping the tablet can happen, so it’s always a good idea to protect it from damage with the help of a good-quality case.
Believe it or not, homework has benefits for students, teachers, and parents. It allows parents to play an active role in their kids’ education. Nonetheless, it is not always easy for parents to help their children with homework. Try these tips, and end the homework battle for good!