Homework not only reinforces lessons learned at school, but also encourages a connection between the home and school environment. As a parent you can take an active role in your child's education by helping with homework and studying, showing your child that education and learning are important. Homework in early childhood helps your child develop study skills and positive attitudes, according to the U.S. Department of Education. These study skills will help your child on standardized tests and overall grades, which will improve your child's ability to successfully complete college.
Step 1
Designate a study space in your home. The Child Development Institute suggests using your child's bedroom, the kitchen or the dining room table as the designated study space for your child. Wherever you choose, be sure that your child has all the materials and space needed for studying. Make sure the study space provides a large enough surface to spread materials out, while holding writing utensils and other school supplies needed for studying.
Step 2
Eliminate distractions. The television and social phone calls can distract children from studying. However, phone calls to classmates regarding assignments or questions about the material being studied may be helpful, according to the Kid Source website. During study time, turn off the television, turn the ringer off the phone, or do not accept social calls for your child and encourage other family members to take part in a quiet activity that will not distract from your child's studying.
Step 3
Develop a consistent routine. Children flourish with consistent schedules. This applies to your child's study routine as well. The U.S. Department of Education recommends setting a time for your child to study and sticking to that time consistently. Take your life and the routines and activities of your household into consideration when developing a routine. If your family is extremely busy in the evenings but less busy in the afternoon, the afternoon may serve as the best time for your child to study. Alternately, if your family is extremely busy immediately after school but is less busy in the evening, the evening may be the best time for your child to study. If you find it difficult to stick to a schedule for study time, it may help to write the schedule out and post it for the entire family to see.
Step 4
Offer adult assistance. A parent's assistance in studying may help motivate your child as well as improve his study skills. The Family Education website recommends taking an active role in your child's studying. Whether she is studying for a test or just working on homework, make sure your child understands the concepts being taught and help her master basic facts. When your child struggles with the material, provide help and work together to find a method that helps him remember and retain information.
Step 5
Encourage organization. The U.S. Department of Education recommends helping your child write out assignments and upcoming tests on a calendar to remind her of due dates. With your child able to track upcoming tests and assignments, you can encourage studying throughout the days or weeks leading up to the due dates. This will prevent him from cramming for a test and failing to retain the knowledge.
