How to Take the Work out of Homework
Homework.
It’s a noun with a public relations problem. While accurate — it is work that you do at home — it just doesn’t sound like a lot of fun — with the work part and all.
Maybe we should start calling it Supplemental Educational Opportunities? Or Brain-Boosting Bonanza? “B-to-the-3″ has a nice ring.
Regardless of its name, homework is here to stay. My step-daughter has been bringing home assignments since she was in kindergarten. We usually try to get it out of the way early in the evening, but sometimes it’s a struggle to fit it in or keep her focused.
What tips do you have for helping your children with homework? How do you assist the younger ones, or encourage older students? Do you think homework is worthwhile?
E-mail me at ssimpson@oklahoman.com
Susan Simpson, Education Writer
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Conditions always work at my house. The TV can’t be on until the homework is done. And when the grades REALLY need serious attention, the kid can’t even have DINNER until the homework is done. You can’t believe how FOCUSED they become when they’re hungry. I’m sure this would be called child abuse by my colleagues in higher education, but I don’t think it was wrong for my parents to send me to bed with NO DINNER when I was a child and deserved correction. In fact, I’ve pulled that a time or two with my kids, and it’s a serious attention-getter! People want to argue the longterm affects of corporal punishment, and I won’t do that here, but the fact is, motivating our children to make better choices really is our job as parents. Bottom line: let YOUR KID choose his poison (no candy, bicycle time, friends over, etc.) What they enjoy MOST is your best tool in discipline. Good luck Susan.