If learning is such a basic activity for children, why is it we have so much trouble getting kids to do their homework?

Any parent of school-aged children has seen the problems associated with homework. Some children give up as soon as they have to put forth a little effort. Others con Mom or Dad into doing their homework for them. And then there are those who conveniently "forget" to bring their assignments home or put off mentioning them until bedtime. So what's a parent to do?

It's not the parents' job to teach a child math, spelling, history and science. That's up to the teachers. But it is the parents' job to help the child master good study habits and skills -- to help the child learn how to learn.

The 'home' in homework

Since home is the place where most homework is completed, it's important to create a favorable environment for learning. Set aside a physical place where your child can do her homework. A desk in your child's room or the kitchen table will do, as long as the area is quiet and free from distractions. Keep the TV turned off. Cartoons have much more kid appeal than practicing words for a spelling test.

Second, set guidelines for study and play time and enforce them. Children are more likely to get their homework finished if they know they can't play until after it's done. There's nothing wrong with using the carrot and stick approach.

Third, make sure your child understand why school -- and homework -- are important. Reading, writing and arithmetic are skills everyone needs to survive in the real world.

Finally, and most importantly, work on establishing a cooperative relationship with your child.

Homework assignments

The first step in completing any homework assignment is helping your child determine its purpose. What is the goal of the assignment? What information or skill should the child learn by doing it? Understanding the assignment will help your child stay on track.

The next step is to get organized. This is the point where your child should decide how to complete the assignment. Ask her how she plans to get it done. If your child is having trouble with this step, you can help by breaking the lesson down into manageable pieces. You might suggest ways to organize the assignment, such as an outline or work schedule. Or you might suggest using certain materials or references, such as a dictionary, thesaurus or encyclopedia.

The third step in the homework process is actually getting it done. While your child is developing his homework skills, it's OK to help him with the actual work. But as he grows more capable, you should reduce your involvement and only offer aid when problems arise.

The last step is to check the completed work. Did your child meet the goals of the assignment? Was the main point addressed? Is the work done neatly? Look at spelling and grammar.

The importance of reinforcement

A very important part of homework is reinforcement. Make sure your child knows she has done a good job and that her efforts, regardless of the grade, are rewarded with praise. Encourage her to tell others what she has learned. After the teacher returns the homework, review it again with your child and talk about ways to improve it in the future. Don't be overly critical. Focus on the positive.

Parental guidance is vital, not only with homework, but in all areas of a child's life. You will find that a small investment in your child's homework routines will have big payoffs in terms of academic success.

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