Homework extends the learning from the classroom to home, giving kids additional practice with the concepts. Homework also teaches independence, self-discipline and responsibility, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Helping your child with his homework allows you to get involved with his education, showing him you care about his success. You are able to see how well he understands what he is learning in class and potential areas that need improvement. Finding a balance in helping your child provides him with support without doing the assignment for him.
Step 1
Set up a location in your home for completing homework. Keep all necessary office supplies handy in the area, including pens, pencils, crayons, markers, rulers, paper clips, staplers, tape and glue. Hang a bulletin board with a calendar for tracking assignments and projects.
Step 2
Schedule time each evening for homework to ensure your child gets the help he needs. Choose a time that doesn't conflict with other activities, such as dinner preparation or sports practice.
Step 3
Sit down with your child at the beginning of the scheduled homework time. Review her school planner and all of the homework assignments she has to complete.
Step 4
Write the due date for assignments and projects that aren't due the next day on the calendar. Help your child break larger projects into manageable chunks to make sure it is completed by the due date. Decide on the order for working on homework assignments for that evening.
Step 5
Read through the homework assignments to make sure your child understands the directions. Help him gather all of the necessary supplies to complete the assignments. Encourage him to ask you questions if he gets stuck on the homework.
Step 6
Check back with your child periodically to make sure she stays on task and still understands the assignment. If she gets stuck on a problem, ask him questions that will lead him to the answer without giving it away. Go through each step of solving the problem or answering the question. Work through a sample problem similar to the homework.
Step 7
Review your child's homework when he is finished. Make sure the assignment is complete and your child gave adequate answers to all of the questions.
