Students who haven’t mastered the basics find homework difficult to do. Here are six tips for success:
1. For directions, highlight action words. If appropriate, have them explain their understanding of the directions to avoid the dreaded "re-do"!
2. Make sure your child knows exactly what to do. Have them work through the first few items to make sure they are on the right track. Re-working homework makes for a late night.
3. For those “chapter” reading assignments, have them write brief notes to avoid re-reading. If this is too much, have them summarize as they read along and you make the notes.
4. If they get tired, use a calculator for math.
5. Have them dictate the writing work to you. Edit the responses, but the final draft should be in their own handwriting.
6. Let them do what they can. For the tougher assignments, sit next to them while they finish.
Don’t respond emotionally to their frustration. If it’s getting late, write the teacher a note and ask for “amnesty” so they can turn in the work without losing points.
If this keeps up and life is miserable, ask for an assessment at school. Click on this link to learn more about making the request. Remember, school districts do not do the kind of diagnostic assessment that a private clinician will do, but the school's services are free.
Struggling consistently with homework may mean that your child is falling behind. Be bold and get the help your child needs.
Just do the best you can, Claudia
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