As I title this blog, I’m throwing a little reference to the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People in there… Uhmmm… Could effective homework habits be the beginning of developing a highly effective student? Fingers crossed… I’m hopeful.

However, for some reason my kids homework somehow stress me out. Is it that they have too much homework? Is it that my child procrastinates so much that homework seems like it takes forever? Is it that our lifestyle does not leave much time for homework? Or is it simply that I cannot help my 10 year old daughter with her math… because I have no idea how to do “new division”. Really? (That’s frustration you hear!)

I’ve accepted that homework is inevitable and actually increases as kids get older. However, there are 7 Helpful Things you can do as a parent to help build positive homework habits and lower everyone’s stress level.

1. Let your child unwind after school. Let them have a healthy snack.
2. Set a designated time for homework. Even as you juggle extracurriculars, try and set a time each day that works.
3. Set a designated space; make sure it’s well lit and free from distractions, this includes NO TV, iPads, iPods (insert tech/mobile device of choice).
4. Ensure that you have the right tools at home, such as paper, pens, calculators, etc…  for them to complete their work.
5. Show an interest in your child’s homework. Ask them about it.
6. Help your child problem solve. If after one or two prompts, your child does not get the answer, help them figure it out (if you can…lol). There’s also a great math resource for older students called Homework Help from the Ministry of Education.
7. Praise your child’s effort. It is about the process and not all about right answers. Do not feel you have to make sure their work is perfect before they hand it in.

It may seem simple, but following these points really can make a difference. Keeping a positive attitude about homework will help your children develop & maintain good homework habits. Homework has been going much better in my house lately. How about you?

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For parenting information or to speak with a public health nurse (every Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) simply dial 311 or 905-825-6000.