 Some
parents are shocked when their first-grader comes
home from school with homework. The reality is
children are learning more at a younger age and
take-home assignments are increasing. Parents play
an important role in engaging children and
providing a positive homework environment, but
knowing what is best for kids can be as confusing
as the assignments themselves.
How much homework should the average student have?
The National PTA recommends 10 to 20 minutes per
night in the first grade, and an additional 10
minutes per grade level thereafter. For example:
20 minutes for second grade, 120 minutes for 12th
grade. Some older students may have more depending
on their class load.
Balancing school, homework, extracurricular
activities and family life is important for good
childhood development. This year as part of its
back to school campaign, Lance Sandwich Crackers
has partnered with Colleen Burns, The Mom on the
Run parenting expert and mother of five boys, to
provide practical advice for parents to help them
make homework a positive experience for everyone.
Give them time to unwind
Unwinding is an important preparation step. Your
kids have been sitting and learning all day -
minus the walk, car or bus ride home. Give them 15
to 20 minutes to blow off some steam and run
around outside before they start their homework.
Everyone needs a little break.
Positive reinforcement
A positive attitude goes a long way. Shower
children with positive reinforcement. For larger
homework projects completed over several days,
reward each step as well as the overall
completion. It's important for kids to understand
that progress is being made.
Keep snacks on hand
Remember hungry kids are distracted kids, so offer
them a wholesome snack while they work. Lance
Sandwich Crackers, which are available in 19
varieties, including whole grain, 100-calorie and
reduced-fat options have zero grams of trans fat,
no preservatives and no high fructose corn syrup,
making them a sensible snack any time of day.
Get help when needed
Feeling stumped with your child's homework
question? You're not the first parent to feel that
way. When your child asks a question you don't
know how to answer, show them that mom and dad
sometimes need help too. These are some great
resources to help parents help kids:
* www.dadmath.com
*
www.scholastic.com/kids/homework
*
www.niehs.nih.gov/health/scied/students/homework
*
www.thinkfinity.org/parents-and-kids
Set the stage for success
Set aside a space or corner that is the designated
space for completing homework. All family members
should recognize that when someone is sitting in
that area, they should not be disturbed unless
they ask for help. Don't underestimate the
importance of a comfortable chair and proper
lighting when it comes to making homework time a
pleasant experience. Set household homework rules.
Mom, dad and other siblings should not be watching
TV in or near someone completing homework. All
house or cell phones should be "parked" - this
goes for mom and dad also.
Create a homework kit for each child
Prepare a "homework kit" with all the necessary
supplies your children will need to complete their
assignments. Contents vary by age, but usually
include pencils, pens, highlighters, ruler,
crayons, markers, glue sticks, erasers and a
pencil sharpener. Older children might need a
calculator or other electronic items. As part of
its back to school campaign, Lance is offering the
chance to win a $500 gift card or one of 25
homework caddies, complete with materials your
child needs to get their homework done. Be sure to
visit
www.Facebook.com/LanceSnacks to enter.
And always remember, homework is about practice -
it will take some children longer than others to
get the hang of it. With the right preparations
and materials on hand, you can ensure that
homework time in your household is effective and
enjoyable for the whole family. |
