Every parent is familiar with the homework issue. Some children handle their homework load well while others have a tough time of it. Actually, there are four main things a parent should consider when planning homework time.
1. Homework Assignments. Teachers now have children keep special parent folders placed in a backpack or school bag. Besides school messages, these folders will also have the homework assignments, allowing the parent to direct the homework activities.
2. Special Study Time. Homework can be done right after school or after a period of play or rest time. Teenagers usually do their homework in the evenings, fitting it in with school activities and part-time jobs. Regardless, having a scheduled time for homework makes it fit into the daily routine–a daily habit–no reminders needed.
3. Special Study Area. The home should have an area that is used for study and for homework. This can be a desk and chair in a child’s bedroom, or it could be the kitchen table, dining-room table, or a corner of a room. Older children can do their homework independently while younger ones will need supervision as they study.
4. Special Supplies. This is a BIGGIE! It can be called “the homework box of gems.” Children need tools to do their homework, and the tools should be within their reach. These tools include: paper, pencils, pencil sharpener, pens, glue, crayons, markers, scissors, ruler, calculator, paper clips, scotch tape, stapler, hole-puncher, post-its, and a dictionary. (Other tools may apply.)
These tools can be in a centralized homework station or the station can be made mobile by using a cart on wheels or having the supplies in a box that can be carried from one study area to another.
Having a homework station is a wonderful asset because it eliminates the need to stop studying every so of tern to find a needed study tool. It allows children to do homework from beginning to end without needless interruptions.
Submitted by Dolores Palladino from Sarasota, FL A survivor of single parenting.
Parenting viewpoints from parents in the trenches, because parenting doesn’t come with a manual. In addition to
Thank you for these good ideas. I have four kids…representing elementary, middle and high school. Homework is a big deal around our house. You inspired me to try and set up a better study area for each of the kids.
Loved the helpful hints in this article. I can see how the homework station and “Box of Gems” are really key components of keeping your kids on task with their homework and I will implement these ideas for my own kids.
Thanks for the great article!
Thanks so much Dolores for the Box of Gems approach. I’ve set it up myself for my two kids and it sure has made a difference being more organized.
Great article! I have a ten year old, my girfriends daughter and we have taken your suggestions in making a dedicated study area completely equipped with a “Box of Gems”. Thank you for the ideas…
I love these common-sense ideas about homework help for students. Actually, I believe these hints could help students of ALL ages to keep up with schoolwork. I especially like the “Homework Box of Gems” idea — I know younger students would love having their very own special “treasure chest” where everything homework-related is at their fingertips. The “Homework Box of Gems” can also serve to keep teenagers on task, preventing the “Mom, I can’t do my homework because we don’t have any Scotch tape!” excuse for not doing homework.
I am a teacher and think these homework tips are wonderful. I will be sharing them with my student’s parents this year and many years to come. Great ideas!
Thank you Dolores! I’m always looking for better ways to get parents involved. I now have the “Homework Box of Gems” to share with them! Great insight!
Thanks for the wonderful ideas, Dolores! Having a homework station and a “Box of Gems” is a great way to stay organized. I’ll certainly share these helpful tips with my family and their children.
Thank you for the wonderful idea. I’m on my way to pick up everything needed for daughters very own Box of Gems. It will be very useful during homework time.
When my mommy read this to me we both got very excited, and ran out immediately to get everything needed for a dedicated study area. I thank you so much for all of the suggestions.
Is there a dog in the “Box of Gems” that eats homework assignments before you do them!!! Ha-ha! What great ideas for helping parents get involved with their kids and keeping kids on track and motivated! Thanks, Dolores, for your ‘gems of wisdom’!
Great information. Having a designated time and place, and adding the “gems” to make things easier for students (and parents), hopefully will make completing homework a pleasant experience for all involved. Thanks for sharing these good ideas.