Create the Environment

Make sure children have a fairly quiet place to study with lots of light.

Put together a homework kit.

Check if children have access to the necessary resources.

Set a regular time every day for homework.

Find appropriate background music.

Show support by staying nearby, whenever possible.

Use positive reinforcement, when appropriate.

Check if children have time to unwind after school.

Check if children have a homework "buddy".

Offer a nutritious snack to children before homework is started.

Encourage children to take short breaks while doing homework.

Ask children not to distract each other while they are doing homework.

Show children that homework is important.

Resolve Problems

Stay in touch with children teachers.

Contact the teacher early in the year before any problems arise.

Cooperate with the teacher to work out a plan and a schedule to resolve homework problems.

Follow up with teachers and with children to make sure the plans are working.

Provide Guidance

Draw the line between providing guidance and doing the homework for your children.

Understand and respect your children's styles of learning.

Check if children work better alone or with someone else.

Encourage your children to develop good study habits.

Help your children to get organized.

Talk with your children about homework assignments.

Make sure children understand homework assignements.

Praise your children when it is appropriate.

Make sure you know the school's homework policy.

Make sure assignments are started and completed.

Read the teacher's comments on assignments that are returned.

Homework Checklist

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