Homework Tips for Parents

Homework Tips for Parents

1. Show a positive attitude towards mathematics

• Children will pick up on negative feelings about mathematics.

• Encourage efforts and accomplishments – persistence and working through problems are valuable life skills.

• Make math real; show connections between mathematics and your daily life.

• Have fun. Puzzles, board games, websites, and brainteasers can provide opportunities for the whole family to have fun together while experiencing mathematics.

 

2. Create a supportive work environment

• Provide a quiet work area for the child, with appropriate furniture and lighting.

• Supply the required materials, such as pencils, a ruler, etc.

 

3. Guide and support. Don’t teach.

• Remember, it is your child’s homework. Resist the temptation to do the work for your child.

• Set high standards by encouraging your child to do his or her best on each activity.

• Encourage responsibility by providing a homework tracking sheet that your child can use to record and check off homework assignments.

 

4. Ask questions. Be a supportive listener.

Explanations can give children a starting point and can often help them figure out a problem or reinforce a concept. Here are some sample questions:

• What is the problem?

• What do you know that may help you with the problem?

• What do you need to know?

• Where do you think you should begin?

• How can you show your work?

• Do you think your plan is working?

• What have you done so far?

• Where can you get help?

• Does your answer make sense?

• Is there another way to solve this problem?

 

5. Keep lines of communication open

• Note down any questions or comments as they come up.

• Contact your child’s teacher to discuss your concerns.

• Ask for literature or websites with more information on specific topics or on elementary mathematics in general.