Ask The Expert: Homework Help
The beginning of school has arrived, bringing with it the usual menagerie of sports and activities to fit in our schedules. Those activities can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to getting homework done. Not to worry though. Doreen Delaney, educational specialist and tutor, is here to answer some of our most pressing questions on the subject.
Q. How can parents best help their children manage homework and activities and still have time to relax or play outside?
Doreen: School work has to remain a priority and setting that tone comes from parents. Staying organized and managing time well are key factors in getting the work done. On Sunday, parents can review the week’s activities with their kids, mapping out ideal times to do homework. For example, Monday may mean baseball practice from 5:30 to 7 p.m. That translates into completing most homework – if not all – before practice starts instead of trying to squeeze it in along with dinner after practice. Wednesday may bring another baseball practice as well as a piano lesson. Each afternoon will probably differ in terms of scheduling and blocks of time of at least 30 minutes work well. Students should absolutely have a say in planning out the schedule.
Q. What are some suggestions for creating the ideal homework environment?
Doreen: Finding a quiet spot is a necessity and the same homework area each day is best. As always, computers (for non-homework use), television, and phones should be turned off. Some children may need a parent to check in on them from time to time to gauge progress while others can power through it on their own. Overall, two keys goals in the homework process are student responsibility and initiative.
Q. What if a student continues to struggle with finishing homework?
Doreen: From all my years as a specialist, I’ve learned that no two students are exactly alike in their strengths or needs. Parents can work with their child’s teacher – and tutor if applicable – to help students use techniques and strategies that will work best for him or her.
For example, if a student is struggling with getting a writing activity started, perhaps sitting with a parent, sibling or tutor to brainstorm ideas would help. Once these ideas are written down and a topic is chosen, it is usually easier for the student to write the topic sentence and two supporting ideas. This type of prep work helps alleviate writer’s block. Also, using a timer during an assignment can help a student to focus for a finite period of time.
For students having difficulty with math concepts, I find that visuals and manipulatives such as coins, recipes and pizza slices for fractions are a great way to reinforce an idea. In general, educators need to focus on individual learning styles in order to help students reach their academic goals.
Doreen Delaney can be reached by phone at 201-739-2176 or by email at d.delaney817@gmail.com.
