A Better Dad
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HOMEWORK

The ghosts of years past are vicariously revived by re-entering the joys and sorrows of homework. Welcome back! Somewhere along the line your child will need help with their homework. How you respond will have an impact. 

It's another opportunity to demonstrate interest, strengthen your relationship and model good learning practices. Staying connected and aware of what's happening at school contributes greatly to your child's success and motivation. It’s easy to say ‘school is important’ but if you don’t show that it’s important by giving your time and interest to school centered activities, such as homework, then the message you are sending is not consistent.

On the flip side, showing interest does not mean doing it for them and shielding them from hard work and struggle. Guide them. Explain the consequences of action and let them experience them based on their choices.


Strategic Steps

1.       Have a good place to study, that is well-lit, free from 
          unnecessary distractions (TV, games) 
2.       Provide all (with backup) the materials needed for tasks -
          stationery, computer, pens etc. 
3.       Establish a daily homework time ritual
4.       Establishing a daily homework schedule


All children are different and will embrace each of these steps with varying diligence. There are different forms of intelligence that will affect motivation across subjects and certain tasks. Either way, your child will need support and encouragement to implement these practices consistently and effectively. Ideally, you want to create an environment that is conducive to focused, efficient use of time. Often it will feel anything but that!

The aim of helping with homework is to model persistence, effective and focused practices and the joy of learning. This is an important activity where struggle is important and healthy if the child/ren are supported both in and out of the classroom to see an outcome. Your guidance and timely support will impact their trajectory as a lifelong learner.

Rewards can also be an effective tool for incentivizing good homework practices. This can be done  to recognize progress and encourage your child in specific ways (e.g. breaks, snack, activity).

The way children learn to have internal structure is by starting with external structure. Homework is no different. Provide an environment with a clear space, necessary materials, a ritual and expectations.

Useful links

Family Education: Helping with Homework
Homework : A Guide For Parents 
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