Show them that Homework & Education are Important, by Bill Rusin
If children see that parents care about education and homework, they are more likely to take on that attitude themselves. Here are some ways that you can communicate this:
- Set regular times. Try to ensure that homework is not seen as something that fits around the edge of family life, but that it has a high priority in terms of time. Some children work best in the afternoon whilst others work best after dinner. Sometimes outside activities, such as sport or clubs, need to be dropped so that they do not crowd a child’s life too much. Develop a timetable with your children so that they know what is expected of them. Put the timetable in a high priority position in the house, (e.g. the fridge door), so that both you and your child are aware of the timetable. Setting time guides for completion of work is important. This dissuades children from rushing their work so that they can get to the TV or computer games.
- Have a defined place where homework and assignments are to be completed. This may be in the bedroom, but it can be at the living room table. If they have their own space, decorating it and having their study materials around is helpful. It should also be well lit.
- Remove distractions. TURN OFF THE TV! Even if you are missing something you like to watch, this sends a powerful message to your children. Background music is OK, but loud music is a distraction. It doesn’t matter what the music is, but it must not be loud. Be careful with earphones, as you cannot monitor the volume!