ST. LOUIS, August 22, 2003 -- Spelling tests. Reading assignments. Word problems. They’re all telltale signs summer is officially over. And while it may be time to get back to the books, it doesn’t have to be time to fall back into old habits.
St. Louis Children’s Hospital psychologist Kimberly Sirl, Ph.D. says the key to making the grade is organization. "Few people are born with a Franklin Planner or a palm pilot in their hands so children need to be taught early-on how to handle homework."
For younger children, that can be something as simple as a lesson from mom or dad on how to use a bookmark. As kids get older, parents and teachers can introduce things like assignment notebooks or mnemonic devices to help coordinate homework responsibilities.
And Dr. Sirl warns, while it’s important to teach your kids the value of learning, pushing too hard can have the reverse effect. "Having the rule of ‘finish your homework before you play’ indicates that school work is a priority. However, parents’ attitudes can also contribute to a child developing a negative association about school."
One of the hardest things for parents is learning to step back and allow their children to be independent, while still demonstrating an interest in their assignments. Through the middle school years parents should continue to monitor that work is completed, and make themselves available to answer homework questions. But as kids approach high school, Dr. Sirl suggests studying with peers may be more developmentally appropriate than studying with parents.
And never underestimate the impact of awarding an "A" for effort. "Parents should be careful to remember that grades belong to your child, not you," says Dr. Sirl. "Praise and support your child’s efforts rather than his or her grades."
Here are some important guidelines for helping your child learn to do homework:
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Establish a routine for after-school activities that includes time to do homework
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With your child’s help, write down the routine (with words or pictures) and display it
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Allow children time to unwind after school before getting started on their homework
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Do not plan to do homework when your child is tired. Some children actually function better in the morning, when they first wake up
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Build in activities after homework is completed (like TV, games or dinner) to motivate the child to finish
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Avoid procrastination – teach children to do the hardest or most boring assignment first
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Establish a place dedicated to doing homework that is free from clutter
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Have basic study materials already set up so your child can get to work immediately
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Minimize distractions such as TV, toys or sibling-interaction
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Have an adult available who can answer questions and make sure the child stays on track
All kids learn at different levels. If your child is having serious trouble completing his or her assignments, talk with his teachers and try to address what obstacles could be deterring him. Is there a creative solution to helping motivate your child? Most importantly, if the homework struggle begins to monopolize your family relationships, consider a tutor or a professional consultation.
St. Louis Children’s Hospital has provided specialized care for children for more than 120 years. Children’s Hospital is affiliated with Washington University School of Medicine, ranked the second best medical school in the country by US News & World Report. In 2003, Child magazine ranked St. Louis Children’s Hospital sixth on its list of the 10 Best children’s hospitals in the country, and fourth in neonatology/neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). St. Louis Children’s Hospital also is a member of BJC HealthCare.