Creating a place suitable for homework is the first step. The kitchen table can be an excellent place. It is important that the place be well lighted. It also should be centrally located so a child who needs help can easily be assisted. Most students do not need total quiet, but it is important that distracting sounds and sights are not present. The television is an example of a distraction. More than one child can sit comfortably at the table to do their schoolwork and still be supervised by a caring older person. Older siblings are often able to help younger brothers and sisters at the kitchen table.
Setting up a time for homework is as important as the desk. A good time for homework may be either right before or right after dinner. While older members of the family are working on the meal or the clean-up they can help students with understanding homework as needed. Scheduling a time for schoolwork in the busy day assures that the work is completed. Unless there is a special activity in the evening, I believe that kids need some time to play right after school. They have worked hard and need a time to relax and move. Make the time for homework fun not a punishment. If a parent takes the time to show interest and values the student's homework, the student also will value the homework. It is important that children learn that homework is not an optional activity, but it is a time to practice the skills they have learned. Make homework time family time by leaving the TV off. This is a great time for parents to model their own academic skills by doing their own personal reading or writing activity.
Many times students are unable to complete homework because they do not have the needed supplies at home. In the summer, take advantage of the back to school sales and buy enough supplies for both school and home. Students need school supplies, but they also need the same type of supplies at home for homework. Even older students may find themselves working at home on posters for reports and need markers, crayons and colored pencils. A special drawer, shelf or container should be designated as the storage center for all homework supplies. Having ample supplies provide students with opportunities to use their artistic and academic skills in their own art or writing activities also. Reference books such as a dictionary and a thesaurus also may be helpful for older students.
Near the homework area there should be a display of the student's work. Children who come from homes where their academic accomplishments are honored are motivated to meet the classroom expectations. Change the family homework display frequently and be sure that every child in the family has something displayed.
Clean up the homework desk area right after the work is finished. Be sure the homework is placed in the child's backpack and the backpack is ready to go to school in the morning. Many students complete the homework, but forget it at home. They bring an empty backpack to class or one filled with toys. Teaching your child the routine of cleaning up the homework desk and putting all assignments in the backpack is an essential routine. When the homework is completed do something rewarding.