Parents - It’s Important to Stay Involved in Your Children’s Homework Process

Last week, I ended my blog by stating that the implementation of a homework schedule and a quiet place to work gives children the basics they need for concentration and a good homework product. I suggested that parents set aside time to assist their children. Today, I will dig deeper into parental involvement in homework.

When it comes to homework, take time to, at the very least, oversee the homework process. Ask questions to make sure that they know what the homework is and what is expected of them.

Engage and respond when given the chance. Working with your children not only gives them an opportunity to discuss what they are learning, but also gives parents the opportunity to know what their children are learning. Even the smartest children will sometimes need help and that is an opportunity to step in. In regard to making corrections, while it is important for you to make a correction when a mistake is made, you should give critiques constructively, not with judgment or name calling.

As children grow older, their work becomes progressively harder, making it more difficult for both students and parents to keep up. Never “make up” an answer if you do not know how to solve a specific problem. Your job is to help them to the best of your ability. Giving false information does more damage than good for a child’s education. Instead, make a note of the problem that was giving you both trouble and speak with or email the teacher, so the teacher knows exactly what to review with your child during the next class.

When it comes to homework, there is no expectation for you to be the perfect parent. There will be some areas you can assist with and there will be times when you are just as confused as your children, maybe even more. Being a part of that process is what is most important for your children’s development and what will eventually cause them to thrive.

Spending Time with Your Children While They are Doing Homework

Homework is an integral aspect of your children’s education as it ensures that they can comprehend every lesson taught to them. Spending quality time with them and assisting when necessary, shows that you care for them and their success.

I remember that, as a child, my mother was by my side to help and guide me whenever I had homework challenges. One such challenge comes vividly to mind. When I was in 5th grade, I had a homework assignment due the first school day after the four day Thanksgiving holiday. Even though I had four days to complete it, I kept procrastinating and waited until late Sunday afternoon to begin it. What I discovered was that it was not a short, easy assignment. I had to study all about Thanksgiving Day and create an art project about the Pilgrims. I panicked and went straight to my mother for help. Not only did she spend the rest of that afternoon and evening assisting me putting together the art project, but she also enlisted all of my sisters to help. We had the dining room table covered with crayons and markers, pictures of turkeys, Pilgrims and Indians, and glue.

My mother was not happy that I had procrastinated and she made that very clear. I can honestly say that I never procrastinated on another homework project again!

Every child handles homework differently. Consider developing a homework schedule as an integral part of your children’s academic development. It should not only be consistent, but also work well for the child, making the experience less of a chore.

Once you work out a schedule, set up an environment where your children are able to complete their work without problems or interference. After doing all this, you should set aside time to help them complete their assignments. Remember, though, not to do their homework for them!