Some children spend hours on homework when it's not necessary. They may stop and start, and be easily distracted. In cases like this, here's what to do.
1. Schedule daily homework time.
Allot a time each day when all other activities stop and your child must go to his study area and do homework. Say,
"I expect you to get all of your homework done during this time. Your taking all evening to do it must stop."2. Make sure homework is done in a quiet area.
If your child has been working in a distracting environment, make sure there is no TV, stereo, or interruptions by
siblings. If necessary, you may need to change the location of the study area.3. Give praise and support when homework is done on time.
Say, "I am really pleased to see that you got your homework done on time. I'm so proud of you."4. Give additional incentives when appropriate.
To help develop the habit of completing homework on time, play Beat the Clock. First determine how long
homework should take. Then, at the start of homework time, set a timer. If homework is finished by the bell, a
special privilege is earned.5. Back up your words with actions.
Say, "You can either do your homework during daily homework time or lose these privileges during that time. You
will not leave this house. You will not watch TV, listen to music, or use the telephone. You will sit here until all of
your homework is done. The choice is yours." Stick to your demands. It may take your child several days to realize
that you mean business.Excerpted from Lee Canter's Parents On Your Side: A Teacher's Guide to Creating Positive Relationships with Parents; Lee Cantor and Marlene Canter; Canter and Associates; 2001
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