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Homework
is an essential part of schoolwork. There’s no getting around it,
nor should anyone try. It’s best when children accept homework
as part of their obligation as students.
To avoid homework tussles, it’s best that parents monitor and guide
their children’s assignments. If problems still arise, parents,
teachers, students, and school personnel might need to work together
to resolve the issues.
First, share any concerns directly with the teacher. If a child is refusing
to do an assignment, despite your encouragement, there might be something
larger at issue. Also, approach the teacher if instructions seem unclear,
if you can’t seem to help your child get organized to finish the
assignments, if you can’t provided needed supplies or materials,
or if the assignments appear to be coming too often or are too hard
or too easy. Especially contact the teacher if a child has missed school
and needs to make up assignments.
Remember that communication between teachers and parents is very important
in solving homework problems.
For this reason, be sure to talk with teachers early in the school year.
It’s important to get acquainted before problems arise, and to
let teachers know that you would like to be kept informed. Most schools
have open houses or other events where parents are invited early in
the year.
Also, be sure to contact the teacher immediately if you suspect your
child has a homework problem. Sometimes parents are in a better position
to notice problems before the teacher does. By alerting the teacher,
you can work together to solve a problem in the early stages. And remember
to start with the teacher. It’s not a good idea to go straight
to a principal before giving the teacher a chance to work out the problem
first.
Approach the teacher in a cooperative spirit. Though you may disagree
on a given issue, you both want your child to succeed. Working cooperatively
is the best way to accomplish that goal.
Make sure that communication is clear. Listen carefully to the teacher
and don’t leave until you are sure you understand what has been
said. Also, make sure the teacher understands all your points.
Finally, follow up to make sure the approach you agreed to is working.
Together, schools and parents can be great allies in a child’s
education.
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