Tyrone

Homework is a fact of life. If you have school-age children, youve probably found yourself doing math problems of helping with English essays. But parenting does not necessarily mean that youre stuck doing homework again. Although it is your duty to make sure your kids fulfil all their academic tasks, it's also your duty to instruct them on how to do it themselves; while you fade into the background as a supervisor. So don't get frustrated by all the cutting, researching, and solving; teach your children these simple steps.

1.Take a few minutes to relax. Although traditionally parents demand that the kids start working on their homework as soon as they get home, I have found that its not always the best alternative. School can be as stressful as a full time, demanding job, and like you, your child needs to relax before tackling the assignments. Just a few minutes will do; enough to eat, change clothes, and get organized.

2.Pick a good place. An adequate place is one with few distractions, great lighting and comfort. Make sure the temperature is comfortable; there is an appropriate chair and desk or comfy rugs and/or pillows. Access to a computer and printer are also necessary. Also, avoid changing places after youve found one that works.

3.Get your materials ready. In order to keep from having to get up every few minutes to fetch one thing or the other, make sure the chosen study spot has a decent supply of everything like pencils, pens, crayons, markers, erasers, sharpeners, ruled paper, white paper, calculator, etc. I always suggest to students that it might be a good idea to also have a snack readily at hand (something that wont make a mess, though), that way you wont have to interrupt your work because you have the munchies. Be sure to have all books, notebooks and other documents with you before you begin.

4.Keep an agenda or homework guide. Relying on your memory might not always be a good idea. Make sure you have a specific place to write down all your upcoming assignments. It will save you a lot of trouble, time and unnecessary phone calls.

5.Take a break. Few children are able to concentrate on homework for hours at a time. Usually a short 10 minute break between assignments can be relaxing and invigorating.

Overall, teach your kids to take advantage of their study time by making it a calm, stress-free experience. Your goal is to help them become independent and responsible students.

Dinorah Blackman-Williams has been a teacher for 16 years. She lives in Panama with her husband and preschooler Imani. Dinorah is currently working on her second book. Her first book can be previewed and purchased at http://www.lulu.com/blackman