Second grade is an important year in your child's academic career. Now is
the time to set up important routines and expectations especially when it
comes to homework. On this page you will find some helpful tips that will
help you and your child establish a homework routine.
Establishing the Routine
1. Find a quiet, comfortable place. This needs to be a place away from
distractions like television, computers, and so forth where your child can
do his or her homework everyday. Many children love to have a desk that is
just for them at this age. Having a special place to do homework will help
your child focus better as well as develop better organizational skills.
2. Have materials ready. Whatever special homework place you and your
family select, make sure that it is equipped with any necessary tools and
materials your child might need to complete the assignment. Have your child
decorate a special basket or box to keep any necessary items neat and
orderly. Here are some supplies that should always be readily available to
your student:
pencils
an eraser
crayons
scissors
glue
paper
3. Establish a time to do homework. Finding a consistent time to do
homework can be challenging with soccer, ballet, and swimming lessons.
However, make an attempt to complete homework around the same time each
day. Your child will be tired when he or she comes home from school. He or
she would benefit from a snack and a short break to rest and re-charge their
batteries before tackling homework. Using a timer can assist children who
struggle with time management. Children with shorter attention spans may
need to finish half or the homework assignment, take a break, and then
complete it. Of course, getting a good night's rest is vital to your
child's temperament and development. Complete homework early in the
evening. Have your child pack his or her backpack and be ready for school
long before bedtime. This will prevent panic and chaos in the morning rush to
get to school.
4. Be involved! Check your child's homework every day. Examine the
homework assignment, review schoolwork that has been set home, and talk with
your child about his or her day! Some homework assignments at this stage
will require your assistance and involvement. Remember the time you spend
establishing these routines will help avoid homework headaches in the future.
5. Encourage your child to do his or her very best. In second grade, the
purpose of homework is to help your child develop organizational skills,
learn responsibility, and reinforce skills introduced in school. It is also
a time to involve the parent in the academic progress. Your child's
homework assignment should take no more than 15-20 minutes. If your child
has tried his or her best and is still having trouble completing the
assignment in a reasonable amount of time, please contact me so that we can
get to the root of the problem. Homework is a time for your child to shine
and show you what he or she is learning! Keep your routine consistent and
help your child enjoy learning at home.