How can I Help my Child with Homework?

Discover the significance of homework and learn how to assist your child effectively. Explore ideas, hints, and tips for parents to ensure children derive maximum benefits from their homework. Delve into our The Value of Homework article for additional insights.

Why do teachers assign homework?

Homework serves to reinforce school lessons and foster independent learning in pupils. Consistent completion of homework correlates with improved academic outcomes for children.

Despite the positive impact of supportive parents, a 2014 study revealed that 1 in 6 parents completed all their children's homework. The following suggestions provide tips for facilitating independent learning and supporting your child's homework skills.

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How can I check my child's homework assignments?

Prior to assisting your child with homework, it's crucial to know the assignments. Check their homework diary or timetable, commonly provided by schools, to stay informed about their tasks.

Staying Informed about Modern Learning Methods

Educational techniques evolve, and it's vital to align your guidance with contemporary methods. Stay informed about how specific subjects are taught and the curriculum to prevent confusion for your child.

Identifying Signs of Struggle

Establish a strong relationship with your child's teachers to identify potential struggles. Attend parents' evenings, review reports, and proactively communicate with teachers. In cases where focus at home is challenging, consider the benefits of 'Homework Clubs'.

Setting Homework Guidelines

Government guidelines no longer dictate the amount of homework. Schools now determine the workload. General recommendations (abolished in 2012) included:

Primary school children:

• Years 1 and 2: 60 minutes per week
• Years 3 and 4: 90 minutes per week
• Years 5 and 6: 30 minutes a day

Secondary school children:

• Years 7 and 8: 45 - 90 minutes a day
• Year 9: 60 -120 minutes a day
• Years 10 and 11: 90 - 150 minutes a day

Discuss concerns about homework load with teachers.

Motivating Your Child for Homework

Actively engage with your child's homework. Encourage them to share school projects and assignments, offering constructive criticism and praise. Establish a positive work ethic and motivate your child by acknowledging their efforts. Make homework enjoyable using colours, charts, and stickers to recognise achievements.

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Organizing the Homework Environment

Creating an organized homework environment is essential. Dedicate a specific time each evening for homework, making it a family routine. Assist your child in setting up a quiet, distraction-free workspace. Provide necessary materials and employ additional organization tips:

• Encourage problem-solving if they are stuck
• Collaborate on a 'Homework Timetable'
• A 'To Do' checklist is a good idea, so they can tick off work as it is completed
• Explain the importance of time management and not leaving homework until the last minute

Homework for Primary School Children

Mainly focused on reading, primary school homework lays a foundation for essential skills. Regular reading is key to academic success, and parents can enhance this by:

• Discovering their interests and encouraging book exploration
• Engaging in multilingual reading if English isn't their first language
• Make maths fun and interactive
• School websites often have useful resources

Homework for Secondary School Children

Secondary school students face increased homework responsibilities. Foster independence while reassuring them that seeking advice is encouraged. Assist in planning a realistic homework/revision timetable and leverage technology with helpful 'apps' for organization.

So, how can you help your child with homework? Actively supporting them to do their homework provides an invaluable learning foundation, since teaching children to work independently will give them a lasting advantage. Help them to be organised, offer support if they are struggling and always reward their efforts with praise and encouragement.

If your child works best with others, suggest a 'study friend' who is a positive influence – remembering that work comes first! And, of course, you can also use the curriculum-based Education Quizzes!

For more articles full of tips and advice for parents, take a look at our Knowledge Bank. It’s a valuable resource which aims to answer parents’ questions about education and raising children. Why not take a look?

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