Jennifer Di Ruocco
Mom to Mom Contributor
September, 2009
Homework Hints
It’s the goal of every parent: having your child complete and return their homework successfully with a great attitude. Sometimes you feel that this may be too difficult of a task to take on but with these tips homework with a great attitude is possible.
- Make sure your child has a quiet organized spot to complete homework and study. Provide them with all the tools they will need. If your child studies in different areas of the house provide them with a small plastic tub for study tools. This is a convenient way for kids to move around and be ready for any assignment.
- As the parent and role model you must start with a good attitude. Be positive and if you have any negative feelings don’t share them with your child. Contact the teacher with questions or concerns.
- As your child does homework you can spend time working as well. You can read or balance your checkbook, which are both skills you learned in school.
- Ask questions and be involved with their school curriculum. You might be able to teach your child strategies that they have not learned. Provide guidance when necessary but remember to not overstep your boundaries as most work is made to be completed by the student.
- Have your child keep an assignment notebook. This will keep your child organized and know exactly what work needs to get done. Also, teach your child about time management.
- Do the hard work first. Earlier in the evening your child will be less fatigued and can be more focused on the task at hand.
- Take short breaks. Let your child walk away for a quick break, but not to the television! Eating a healthy snack or walking outside for some fresh air will rejuvenate your child.
- Reward progress made as your child is positive and successful in completing and returning their homework.
- Schedule for long term projects. Many times children are assigned projects to be completed at home. Prepare in advance with purchasing supplies and allowing enough time so they don’t become overwhelmed.
- Use the school website to help with planning projects and daily assignments.
By now most students and parents know how much homework will be given from their teacher. Having a plan is your first step so success will be possible. Remember to praise your child’s effort and work as a team. If questions or concerns arise take time to e-mail, call or meet with the teacher. It is extremely important that you, your child, and the teacher are all on the same page.
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Picture Book
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Since its original publication in 1961, Hailstones and Halibut Bones, Mary O'Neill's renowned work of poetry about the colors of the spectrum, has become a modern children's classic. This new edition, which features lavish illustrations and a fresh design, is sure to be welcomed not only by children, parents, educators, and librarians who already know and love the book, but also by a whole new generation of readers.
Mary O'Neill's imaginative poems have been left intact with all the powerful rhythm and rich language of the original. And the award-winning, critically acclaimed artist John Wallner has captured the essence of the poems with striking and colorful images.
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