Homework is the thing kids love to hate. It keeps them from their friends, computer and other fun activities.

Motivation

Most kids understand that homework is a part of their life. Though they may protest it, they know it has to be done. Be consistent. Try to have a set time and place for homework with no distractions. Do check their homework. Ask for the assignment book and check that they have completed each piece of homework.

Helping them with homework

Its great if you can get involved with their homework. Do not do any part of their homework for them! I cannot emphasize that enough. Check for spelling errors and syntax. Check their math. Give them a pop quiz.

What if they do not understand something?

That includes taking one piece of their homework to demonstrate and letting them do the rest. Make up your own example and guide them through it. If they are still having difficulty, break it down further with a simpler example working back up to the level of their assignment. For meaning of words, have them look it up in a dictionary. If you do not have one at home, there are ones online. For spellings, let them have a go first. Make them sound out the parts of the word and try to spell it. If they still do not spell it correctly, then tell it to them and have them repeat it.

Projects 

• For projects, again do not do any part of it for them

• Do give them clues and options to follow up on

• Suggest ways to research the topic

• Have materials on hand that they can use

• Encourage them to plan before they act

What if my child is up till late doing homework?

Check and see if your child is planning out their time appropriately. If not, help them plan the evening out and set time limits for each piece of homework. Check with other parents whose kids have the same classes and see if they are having difficulty too Talk to the teacher or counselor to understand how long should be taken over homework,