Homework Advice From a Teacher & Parent: We're in This Together School/Education Parenting Education Kids
Even teachers struggle with homework time as parents. I, too, have heard things like, “That’s not how we learned it in school!” My credentials as an educator mean nothing to my third and fifth grader. On some nights (more than I’d like to admit), the tears and frustration happen in this house, too.
As a teacher of many years, I’ve given advice to parents that come to me with this problem. Now I’m living it and trying to survive the parenting role. I’ve had to step back and attempt to listen to my own advice:
- Take a deep breath.
- Try not to get confrontational. As soon as this happens, it all falls apart.
- Set up a routine that works for you. Keeping things similar from day to day will help your child stay organized and know what to expect.
- Allow your child to make mistakes and encourage him or her to ask for help when struggling. The more you hover and try to fix every error, the more resentment and feelings of failure that will transpire.
Remember, this is just homework. It’s meant for practice, not to determine whether or not your child will become valedictorian. Celebrate the effort your child has put into doing his or her best.
And remember, you are not alone.
Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community, and follow us on Facebook to get inspiration in your newsfeed daily. Inspire and be inspired.