Do you feel like you are a broken record when it comes to telling your kids to study? And, how often do you see them wait until the night before it’s due to complete an assignment? And should you really help with homework?
The answers aren’t always cut and dry but here is a little clarification on the matter.
First of all – yes, you should help with homework but in a calm and cheerful way. Make positive comments along the way because you don’t want your child to associate studying and homework with arguments at home. In return they should display the same positive attitude towards their studies.
To teach your child good study habits, have them set aside a special time every day for their work. Set a goal to start and finish within a certain time and divide big assignments in to smaller more workable tasks for them. You might also divide their time into different categories like reviewing, reading, and then on-going projects. Make sure you form a check list as they complete each task to give them a sense of accomplishment.
The answers aren’t always cut and dry but here is a little clarification on the matter.
First of all – yes, you should help with homework but in a calm and cheerful way. Make positive comments along the way because you don’t want your child to associate studying and homework with arguments at home. In return they should display the same positive attitude towards their studies.
To teach your child good study habits, have them set aside a special time every day for their work. Set a goal to start and finish within a certain time and divide big assignments in to smaller more workable tasks for them. You might also divide their time into different categories like reviewing, reading, and then on-going projects. Make sure you form a check list as they complete each task to give them a sense of accomplishment.
| Designating more than one area for studying will keep it fresh. As time allows, take them to a library or a coffee shop. Make sure they also know that cell phones are turned off during these study times as well. You can also help your child create a study group when it’s appropriate. Working in groups can help your child understand certain concepts through their peer’s eyes and can actually encourage them to complete their assignments more quickly and efficiently. Make sure you keep an open communication with your child and their teachers. Students really shouldn’t have any surprises when it comes to how and what they will be graded on. If expectations aren’t clear, contact the teacher or encourage your student to communicate directly if they are older or more independent. |   |
Staying on task now, will help your child stay ahead of the curve before the work assignments become more challenging. Starting good study habits early will also allow for a successful transition to college and help them see a bright positive future that’s just within their reach.