How+Can+Parents+Help?

How Can Parents Help? 1. Set up a specific place to study that is a. Well lighted b. Quiet, but not too isolated. c. Comfortable, with appropriate chair and table. d. Equipped with materials - paper, pencils, pens, erasers, pencil sharpener, clock and computer. 2. Set aside a regular time for homework, or make a schedule for the week so that parents or children can fill in activities, study periods, dinner time, recreation, and bedtime for each school day 3. Be supportive and give appropriate help. Parents should not do their children's homework, but parents can engage in problem solving with them, guide them, and help them over the rough spots. a. Consider the child's learning style. Does the child learn best through seeing, hearing, or manipulating the material? b. Talk about the assignments. Does the child understand the homework? What does the child need in order to complete the work? c. Help the child structure the time and assignment, and help the child get started. Recognize that the responsibility for completing the homework belongs to the student. 4. Show interest in and encourage the child's efforts. 5. Be a parent who is both loving and firm. 6. Refer the child to a homework hot line or Web site to get an explanation of the assignment if needed. 7. Contact the teacher if further help is needed. (Canter & Hausner, 1987; Cooke & Cooke, 1988; Hodapp & Hodapp, 1992; Paulu, 1995; Radencich & Schumm, 1996)