Starting The Year Off Strong

When starts back in August or September that means earlier bedtimes, morning routines and daily homework for the students in CMS. Parents often dread an afternoon of struggling over homework; yet, if you set up a routine early in the year and be consistent, the year will can be a smooth one.

Start by setting a place and time for homework. . Start by setting a place and time for homework. Most children do better with a work before play policy. Encourage children to wind down with a discussion about the day and a healthy snack; then immediately start on homework.

Remember to teach the younger child how to complete the homework task. Model how to put words in alphabetical order or show young students how to write a sentence with a spelling word. Help students to know what is expected. Older students will need less guidance and more inspiration. Redirecting children will help them stay focused. Remember to for praise them for a job well done. Keep your voice calm and even when directing homework; a raised voice rarely achieves the goal you are after.

Reading is an important part of the homework routine. Find a quiet spot and sit next to your young reader. Ask questions to help your child think about the main idea, details, drawing conclusions, inference, predicting outcomes and character analysis. Ask questions that require a full sentence answer. Encourage your children to express themselves fully and allow them finish their own sentences. The better they express themselves verbally, the more fully they will answer questions in the classroom.

Homework reinforces skills already introduced in the classroom. Communicate with the teacher if the work seems much too difficult or much too easy. Homework also is a good communication tool between school and home. Parents are able to see first hand what is being taught at school. Homework is positive and an invaluable education tool. Start off on a good note and you will enjoy watching your children learn right before your eyes!

By Jenny Beaumont, Swan Learning Center, www.swanlearningcenter.com