Ms. Whalen and Ms. Wetzel
As a kid, I had a love-hate relationship with homework. I loved those days when I didn't have any, and I hated the days I did. As a "mature" educator and parent, my attitudes have changed...but only a little bit.
Sure, homework is important! In fact, it doesn't take long to find research that shows how appropriate homework assignments contribute to improved academic achievement. Nevertheless, I still have a love-hate relationship with the stuff. I love when children get appropriate homework...but I hate seeing so many who repeatedly have unhealthy homework experiences.
Much of the problem seems to stem from very conscientious educators and parents who don't understand the key characteristics of appropriate homework:
- It leaves time for the child to contribute to the family by doing chores.
- It leaves time for the child to play and enjoy being a child.
- At least 95% of the content should represent repetition and review of things the child already knows how to do correctly.
- The parent helps only as long as the interaction remains positive.
- It's the child's work...not the parent's work.
In our Schoolwork / Homework Package, we teach a variety of strategies for helping parents and educators keep homework positive and productive. One strategy involves systematically noticing only the parts of their homework they have done well. Helping your child learn to feel good about their stengths will help them have the energy and courage to keep working on their weaknesses.
Thanks for reading! Our goal is to help as many families as possible. If this is a benefit, forward it to a friend.
Dr. Charles Fay
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