Ed468 288 - Helping Your Child with Homework: For Parents of Children in Elementary Through Middle School

Homework is an opportunity for children to learn and for families to be involved with their children's education, but helping children with homework is not always easy. This booklet is designed to provide parents of elementary and middle grades students with an understanding of the purpose and nature of homework and offers suggestions for helping their children complete assignments successfully. The first section of the booklet discusses the "basics" of homework: why teachers assign it, how homework helps children learn, and what is the right amount of homework. The remaining sections discuss how parents can help: (1) show that education and homework are important, includings providing suitable study space, materials and resources, and setting a good example; ( 2 ) monitor assignments, including asking about the school's homework policy and looking over completed assignments; (3) provide guidance, including helping the child get organized, and watching for frustration; and (4) talking with teachers to resolve problems, including telling the teacher of parents' concerns. The booklet concludes with a list of pertinent resources, federal sources of information for children with learning disabilities, and a checklist for helping with homework.