I don’t know about you, but in my house, chaos is the prevailing theme. With 4 kids running around to various activities, not to mention friends coming in and out all the time, our house sometimes feels like Grand Central Station! So when it is time to do homework, I like to create an atmosphere that is calm and conducive to learning.
- Clear the table: choose a homework spot and keep that table clear of papers and clutter. A clean environment that is free from distractions will help your child stay focused.
- Keep supplies handy: I keep a little container filled with sharpened pencils, blue pens for the older kids, highlighters, white-out, a ruler, scissors, tape, and a stapler. This is usually all they are going to need on a typical night.
- Stick around: I try to stay in the general vicinity while they are doing homework, so that I will be available if anyone needs help. I try not to hover, though, because I want them to learn how to work independently.
- Get help: Sometimes my 3rd grader and 6th grader both need help, and I can’t be in two places at the same time. That’s when I enlist my 8th grader to help me help them! Frankly, most of the homework material is more familiar to him, so he is probably more qualified! If you don’t have an 8th grader handy, you can always try a neighbor or friend.
- Stock up on supplies: Here is a partial list of items I like to keep stored in my office, because I know the kids will need them at some point over the course of the school year: Poster board, index cards, looseleaf paper, three-ring notebook dividers, spiral notebooks, post-it notes, and calculators.
Do you have any more homework tips or supplies to add to the list? We want to hear them, so please let us know!