Spring Forward with Positive Homework Habits

As the snow melts and the temperatures rise, our children look forward to spending more time after school, playing outside with friends or playing outdoor sports. Balancing a busy after-school schedule with school assignments can be a challenge at this time of year. Demanding after-school schedules can create stress during homework time. It is a perfect time to reinforce your child’s positive homework habits and time management skills. Using a calendar to record short and long-term assignments, after-school events, and other important dates can help to keep your child informed and organized. Older students can consult the calendar and create after-school schedules for themselves. You can support them as they prioritize their time. Work with your younger children to formulate an after-school plan. Be aware of your child’s work style, energy levels and strengths. Some children need a break to eat a snack and play directly after school; they regain their energy and can tackle homework assignments at about four-o’clock. Others have the mental and physical energy to complete homework as soon as they walk in the door from school, before they become involved in other activities. Some parents find that using a kitchen timer is a fun and effective way to help children complete assignments within reasonable time limits. Completing homework in one sitting can be trying for some children. If so, organize homework time into fifteen-minute segments with a break in between each segment. Many parents help their children organize a homework bin or drawer; having all necessary supplies can promote efficiency. Minimize distractions for your child during homework time by keeping the TV off and younger children or pets out of the homework room. Should you have concerns about your child’s homework be sure to contact your child’s teacher.

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