We know that homework can often be a challenge for students; particularly if they feel confused or have a history of a lack of success. At Fraser Academy, we ask that you support your child to do their own work, but not do it for them.
Supporting Your Child with Homework
What does this homework environment look like?
Here are a few ideas to get your family started:
- Help your child schedule a regular and consistent time to do their work on weekdays and weekends
- Designate an uncluttered, distraction-free space for your child to do their work; this can be at the dining room table or a desk.
- Whenever possible, support them by modelling your own work ethic; if your child has difficulty settling into work, you can sit with him/her and work side-by-side; you can read or answer email or do other quiet work.
- Feel free to answer clarifying questions for your child if they do not understand instructions.
- If your child gets stuck on a question suggest that they take a 5-10 minute break and do something active. If they continue to struggle suggest that they email their teacher to request help the following day.
- Ensure that your child has access to healthy snacks and something to drink; food for thought is very important.
Activities to Improve Critical Thinking & Decision Making
There will also be days where your child does not have homework at all. On these days, some of the following are suggested as family activities.
These activities help to improve both critical thinking and decision making skills:
- Watch or read the news with your child, then discuss the issues that are represented. Ask their opinions on the topics discussed. Demonstrate to them how you form your opinions to make your thinking visible. Have them do the same.
- Ask your child what they are doing in a specific subject and have them explain it to you. Ask them what they like and dislike about the topic and why.
- Ask your child what the best and most challenging events of the day or week have been for them and why.
- Create a “Pros and Cons” list to decide on a family activity to do that evening or on the weekend.
We hope these ideas get you started in supporting your child to develop improved study skills!
Fraser Academy is a fully accredited, independent day school for grades 1-12 students, based in Vancouver, BC. They are leaders in the empowerment and education of students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences.
