Helping your child with her homework may not result in higher achievement, according to a study conducted on middle school students by the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at Duke University. The results, published in the May 2009 issue of the journal "Developmental Psychology," found helping adolescents with homework was actually negatively related to achievement. However, other types of parental involvement, such as goal setting and communication of expectations, were positively related to achievement.
Provide Structure
Parents can help with homework even if they are unfamiliar with the content by providing structure and teaching organization skills. ED.gov, a U.S. Department of Education website, advises parents to encourage good study habits by setting a regular time for homework for homework to begin each day. Choosing the time with input from your child may reduce tension because you made the decision together. Create an area for her to work that is well-lit and free from distractions, such as the television and younger siblings. Provide proper supplies, including a pencil, an eraser and a dictionary, along with any special requests made by the teacher.
Monitor Assignments And Progress
Talk to her teachers about their homework policy so you know what to expect during the school year, as suggested by ED.gov. Show your daughter how to write down assignments with the pertinent details. When she asks questions or wants to discuss the topic of her homework, show interest and set a good example by making her homework your priority too. Review completed assignments, praise achievement and diffuse frustration. Teach her proper planning skills and monitor her progress when she has a long-term project.
Help With Reading Homework
Help your child with reading homework and listen as he reads to you. Homework Tips for Parents, provided by the U.S. Government's No child Left Behind policy, suggests several tips you can use before, during and after the story. Before the story, ask your child to speculate about the upcoming story by looking at the title and any pictures. During the story, discuss the characters and gently point out pronunciation mistakes helping him pronounce the words correctly. After the story, have him summarize the story in his own words. Ask comprehension questions and inquire about his favorite moments and characters. If the reading was about a sensitive topic, such as the treatment of slaves in the Civil War, ask him if he feels sad; provide support and guidance.
