onor the teaching methods of your child’s teacher
and school. Avoid confusing him with tricks or short-cuts
that contradict what he has learned.
ffer a homework environment that is comfortable
and free of distraction. Consider your child’s
personality when establishing the work area. Some
children work best in total privacy, while others thrive
with family members close by.
odel behavior you want your child to imitate. Let
your child see you reading books, writing letters or
balancing your checkbook while she does her
homework.
stablish a consistent homework schedule. Children
may need a break after school, although some prefer
to get their homework done immediately. Avoid the
bedtime hour when fatigue can lead to frustration and
short tempers.
ithhold from preaching and criticizing. Be supportive
and offer words of encouragement to ensure a
positive homework environment.
versee your child’s progress through frequent
contact with his teacher. Learn what the teacher
expects, and learn to recognize problems by asking
questions and listening to your child.
espect your child’s individual learning style. Avoid
comparing her work habits with those of other
children or teaching her your way. Each child learns
differently and should be encouraged to establish her
own style.
now your role as a parent. You should serve as a
resource person your child can consult when questions
or problems arise. Avoid getting caught up in
correcting your child’s work and policing his progress.
elp your child organize her work space. Make
sure she has all needed materials before
beginning her homework to avoid unnecessary
interruptions.
nclude the entire family in the homework
schedule. This is a good time for all family
members to do quiet activities.
ourish your child’s creativity by encouraging
him to think aloud. Thoughts and ideas will start
flowing when your child talks about his
assignments. Avoid overwhelming him with your
ideas. Instead, offer subtle hints to get the
wheels turning.
alk to your child about how homework
teaches him responsibility and independence.
Reinforce the idea that homework is a
contract between the child and the teacher,
not the child and the parent.
et an ending time for homework. Focusing on
a finishing rather than a starting time will allow
your child to better pace himself and teach him
the value of time management.
Jesse White • Illinois Secretary of State
Homework
Hints
Printed by authority of the State of Illinois. August 2002
