The Homework Struggle

Homework probably doesn't rank on your teen’s list of Top Ten Fun Things to Do. While some kids complacently do their homework assignments, others need to be pushed, asked, and maybe even offered rewards or incentives.

Getting your kids to do their homework doesn't have to be a struggle. Being consistent with homewrok rules is the first step.

Parenting tips to improve your student's behavior:

• Set a certain time and place to do homework. Make homework part of your daily routine with a specific set time, like right after school, and place, like at the dining room table, to get it done.
• Take a "quick" look at the assignment after your child completes it – resist the temptation to correct errors and critique handwriting. Unless the work is completely off base, let your child learn the consequences. Chances are the assignment will be reviewed in class.
• Talk to your child about any problems she may be having. Sometimes a simple "I don't feel like doing this assignment" means something else entirely. Communication is always the key to ensuring your teen’s classroom success.
• Are you smarter than a 5th Grader? Encourage your child to quiz you on a few facts. She will love it, especially if it proves she knows more than you do, and it’s good study practice.
• Remove distractions. Turn off cell phones and the televisión so that your child can focus on her assignments.
• Make a list of the assignments and award points for completing them on time. The points can then be used to "buy" rewards such as "TV time", time on the computer, etc.

Although your teen may never consider homework “fun,” she can come to view it as a necessary evil. Make sure she understands that homework is designed to reinforce what she learned in class and encourage her to consider it good practice.