Nobody, I mean NOBODY, wants to argue with a tween or teenager about school work. Some students do not want to complete homework, or they struggle with just getting it finished each night. Others think school work is ONLY about completing a homework assignment. These are the two biggest problems I see with students.
Sometimes parents take the position that their children are old enough to take on school responsibilities on their own. However, if kids aren't stepping up their game as work increases in volume or difficulty, then it probably is time to take a more hands on approach.
Forcing your child to complete homework and study each night is not sustainable, nor does it build goodwill and better relationships. So what CAN you do?
1. Create a homework friendly space. Sometimes that is at the kitchen table; sometimes in a child's room. Talk to your child and figure it out together. Think collaboration.
2. Some students claim they don't have time to work on school work each day. You may need to help your child create a study schedule and write it out or put it on his/her phone. (Reinforce the idea that school work means completing homework, reviewing notes and handouts nightly, and working on projects.)
3. Manage distractions. Some families have a media free time for the entire family. Phones are in charging stations; televisions are off. Yes, this requires an investment from all family members, but what a great message a parent can send about what is important.
4. Encourage your child along the way. Sometimes you are frustrated and find this difficult. However, nagging is pointless. Instead, set a family standard for grades. Offer recognition for meeting the standard. Find opportunities to praise productivity not just a good grade as you child progresses towards a goal.
5. If your child continues to have problems with school work, consider getting help. Start by talking to the teachers to be sure there are no indications of a learning problem that has gone unaddressed. There are coaches and tutors who can provide direction for you and assistance for your child.
Sometimes parents take the position that their children are old enough to take on school responsibilities on their own. However, if kids aren't stepping up their game as work increases in volume or difficulty, then it probably is time to take a more hands on approach.
Forcing your child to complete homework and study each night is not sustainable, nor does it build goodwill and better relationships. So what CAN you do?
1. Create a homework friendly space. Sometimes that is at the kitchen table; sometimes in a child's room. Talk to your child and figure it out together. Think collaboration.
2. Some students claim they don't have time to work on school work each day. You may need to help your child create a study schedule and write it out or put it on his/her phone. (Reinforce the idea that school work means completing homework, reviewing notes and handouts nightly, and working on projects.)
3. Manage distractions. Some families have a media free time for the entire family. Phones are in charging stations; televisions are off. Yes, this requires an investment from all family members, but what a great message a parent can send about what is important.
4. Encourage your child along the way. Sometimes you are frustrated and find this difficult. However, nagging is pointless. Instead, set a family standard for grades. Offer recognition for meeting the standard. Find opportunities to praise productivity not just a good grade as you child progresses towards a goal.
5. If your child continues to have problems with school work, consider getting help. Start by talking to the teachers to be sure there are no indications of a learning problem that has gone unaddressed. There are coaches and tutors who can provide direction for you and assistance for your child.
