Along with your student's return to school comes the inevitable – homework. Whether your distance learner delves into assignments willingly or fights them like the plague, there are a few things you can do to help him complete school work with success. Here are some homework tips for parents from the Department of Education.
1. Provide a productive work environment. Find a quiet, well-lit place in your home where your student can study undisturbed. Store materials and helpful academic resources, such as pencils, paper, and a dictionary, in the student's study area.
2. Teach time management. Help your student create a homework schedule. Designating a block of time for homework each day can reduce arguments and increase productivity, leaving more time for fun later. Encourage your student to get the challenging assignments out of the way first. In addition, discuss ways to use the weekends to work on special projects.
3. Study with your student. Show your distance learner how the things he's learning will impact him down the road. Read a book, balance your checkbook, or dive into a devotion while your student is working on homework related to those subjects.
4. Communicate with teachers. Chat about course expectations and find out what exactly you can do to support your distance learner's studies. Cooperate with teacher requests as best you can to show that home and school work together as a team and to reinforce the value of your student's education.
5. Keep your attitude in check. Frustration often accompanies confusion. If your student is struggling with homework, commit to maintaining a positive attitude before you get involved. If the frustration continues to interfere with learning, encourage your student to take a short break to unwind.
6. Reward academic success. Show your student that hard work does not go unnoticed. Celebrate with a special event, such as ice cream or a game night, when your distance learner stays on schedule or completes a difficult assignment.