“As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right” (1 Samuel 12:23).
Have you ever wondered why your children have so much homework? Does it seem like homework is taking over your life as well as theirs? How much help should you give your children with their homework and school projects?
I used to be an elementary teacher. This is my opinion about homework:
1. Homework is a review of what the teacher has already taught. For that reason children should be able to do it on their own.
2. The purpose of homework is not to give grades to the parents.
3. School projects are usually for a major grade. The student should earn that grade, not the parent.
Here is how parents can help with homework:
1. Make sure your children get rest, food and exercise before they start their assignments.
2. Make sure they start studying before it gets too late, and before they get sleepy.
3. Make sure they have a quiet place to work: turn off the television, clear the table and divert noisy family members to other rooms.
4. Answer questions, discuss the project, but don’t do it for them.
5. Be interested. Admire what they have done well.
6. Encourage their best efforts.
7. Let them know their success is important to you, and provide the needed raw materials, but…let them do it.
Kimberly Snider is a missionary to the Philippines.
From “Moments for Moms,” a free email subscription.
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