Homework can often be a major cause of conflict in households, with parents citing the age-old “have you done your homework?” argument as a daily occurrence.
Even so, homework is a vital source of learning for children of all ages, as it encourages them to reinforce what they’ve learnt at school and develop important study techniques and skills that will help them in later life.
When a child is doing homework, it is crucial for a parent to show an interest and provide support if needed. There are many ways in which we can do this.
Key Skills
-
Reading. When it comes to reading, parents can instil a love of books from an early age by taking children to libraries and getting them involved in choosing reading material.
By reading together, children have the opportunity to ask questions, explore language and eventually read and understand words and sentences. Allow plenty of time to practise and support your child to develop at their own pace.
-
Writing. Parents can help by being enthusiastic about letters and how they add up to make words.
There are countless games and puzzles which can help with word recognition and magnetic numbers or foam bath shapes can be a fun introduction.
Another tip is to write letters, words and sentences and ask your child to copy them.
Making Learning Fun
-
Use your computer. Everything can become a game and when playing on the computer. Seek out educational activities which are fun but still teach important skills.
There are many videos on the internet with an educational focus such as counting or phonics and there is something suitable for every child.
If they are struggling in a specific area, it’s helpful to download support material such as worksheets which you can then help them complete.
-
Games. Board games can also be of great assistance. Things such as flashcards can come in handy especially for younger children who respond well to bold pictures and bright colours.
Day-to-day activities such as shopping, nature walks and cooking can all become ways to teach children counting, differentiating and measuring.
Key Factors for Success
-
The right learning environment. Of course, the home environment needs to be suitable for learning so make space for a desk and chair. Well-designed furniture for schools is functional and tailored to learning, but there’s no reason why a similar environment cannot be created at home.
Good organisation is essential for effective revision and a desk can help with this. Ensure a level of quiet and concentration by making sure the TV is switched off when homework or revision is taking place.
-
Communication. Effective communication is also really important. Parents should feel comfortable in discussing any issues or concerns with their child’s teacher and vice versa.
A good relationship between parent and teacher can pinpoint any areas which need attention or perhaps extra tuition.
-
Individual learning techniques. Children are individuals and all learn differently. Be aware of your child’s interests and try to nurture them.
Take time to find out what their strengths and weaknesses are, and the tactics they respond best to. After-school clubs and social activities can also be great ways of letting children find their niche and get extra support if necessary.
Children learn by example so a good role model is a parent who is hungry to learn. Parents have a vital role to play in educating their children and helping them to grow up to be well-rounded and confident people in their own right.
Author bio:
This guest post was written by Francesca on behalf of Innova Design Solutions who specialize in furniture for schools. You can connect with her on Twitter at @franki_blogs.
Very good information Anne, thanks so much for sharing.
Pamela’s Heavenly Treats – Etsy Shop
Francesca really wrote a great post. Thanks for your comment, Pamela.
Excellent! Homework habits really are critical in developing skills to learn how to learn. Practicing these skills and emphasizing their importance really does foster a life long learner and these tips are a fantastic start to get these habits going strong. I especially appreciate the one on parents being good role models as they really do notice everything we do. Well said!
Hi Lynn, glad you found this article by Francesca excellent. Children just need to develop the habit of studying so consistency is needed. And yes, parents are the biggest influence on children which is why we should always watch how we act around them – something not always easy to do.
These are great tips. I know my kids love to be read too.
And providing a quiet environment (away from TV) is best for my daughter to do her homework.
Food on the Table Offer in April
Twitter: CrazyNutsMom
I’m a big advocate of children reading so it’s great that your daughter loves it. And yes, some kids work best without the TV.
Our daughter needs more help in math than reading/writing. We use manipulatives to help her visualize addition and subtraction. Doing subtraction with m&m’s is fun — and when her work is done, she is rewarded with a small treat!
When our kids were younger, we used play sand (the colored kind you get at craft stores) to practice writing letters and drawing. I stored it in a 9X13 lidded pan on top of the fridge. When they wanted to “play school” I pulled it down so they could “write in it.” Tactile and easier to control than a pencil. AND no mistakes!!! Just shake and try again.
Who are you?
Twitter: karen_dawkins
m&m’s are a delicious way to learn math. Have you considered trying Kumon? Also, thanks for the great tip about writing on play sand (wrote an upcoming post including that activity just the other day so nice coincidence). I agree that shaking is much better than erasing especially when kids are beginning to write letters. Thanks for your comment, Karen.
A youtube channel that I’ve found my children love and have learned A LOT from is http://www.youtube.com/user/KidsTV123?feature=watch
Cute videos packed with info, and not annoying singing. hehe
Great info.
Although, about that turn off the TV part. I know it’s MOSTLY true, but I was the exception. I actually did school better with the TV going or music playing or something else. (My mom tested this) When it was off and it was JUST my math book and me, I didn’t do as well. I am a multi-tasker in a weird way. So I would say, test that theory with a child, as most do better with it off, some, like myself, do better with it on.
Dining Room Blue, to Dining Room New
Having the TV on or off really depends on the child. I have read articles before about how we all process information differently. Some need complete silence while learning and others don’t. So do what suits your child
Thanks for the video recommendation too, Sarah!
You have the best tips for our children! I just love it. Reinforces what I already do, and at times I learn something new. Thank you!
Day 308 ~ "J" is for Justice
Twitter: cali_gal63
Aww Carla that means a lot coming from you
Glad that you still pick-up something new since you already have 2 grown boys (or men). You are most welcome and thank you, too. Have a great weekend with Calley.
These are some great tips! I have turned my dining room into a homework zone. I have a large plastic storage unit, (like a rubbermaid kind of thing with drawers) I keep it on the table with paper and large supplies and then a smaller one holds crayons, scissors, glue, pencils, ect. We also have the computer set up in a separate desk. It’s great because if I need to help I can, they are around the family but also have their place. Plus everything is there so I’m not running around trying to find supplies when someone needs to glue something, or cut out pictures from a magazine. It’s taken a few years but I finally feel like I have my act together, kind of!! Great piece as always Anne! Great guest post!
Spring Rewind
Having a common place where everyone can work (quietly I hope) is a great idea! Aww thanks for your kind words and am sure (gulp) you have your act together (by now). Haha peace, Kathy. You should already know that I enjoy teasing you!
this is so true “Children learn by example so a good role model is a parent who is hungry to learn.”. kids love to observe so we must be careful with our actions.
Viaje del Sol: Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery
Definitely, but watching our actions at all times isn’t easy. Wish it was. Thanks for dropping by Michi!
I have taken to getting up with my son at 5:30 am which is his normal rising time to do homework. He’s up and happy and will do it gladly.
RIP little car
That’s very early but a good habit to form. Thanks for stopping by, Jennie. Hope you had an awesome weekend.
hello anne. such a good tip anne, my 4 year old little maeon will be attending his first preschool studies this june.
Hi Mia, glad you enjoyed it! It was a very great post by Francesca.